Two years after his appointment as Chairman and Sole Administrator of Pacesetter Transport Services (PTS), Dr. Ibrahim Oladeji (Dikko) has positioned the once dormant agency as one of the most revitalised public transportation systems in Nigeria. From expanding routes and upgrading infrastructure to championing staff welfare and embracing clean energy, Dikko’s leadership has reshaped how citizens experience movement across and beyond Oyo State.
When Dr. Dikko assumed office in July 2023, PTS was operating just two intra-city routes in Ibadan. Today, that number has grown to an impressive 39 intra-city routes, with 55 functional buses crisscrossing the state capital daily. However, the reform did not end with Ibadan alone. The agency also launched inter-city services with 12 buses now connecting key zones such as Iseyin, Saki, Ibarapa, Oyo, and Ogbomosho, regions that previously had limited access to structured, affordable public transport.
For the first time in its history, PTS ventured into inter-state operations. Under Dr. Dikko’s guidance, the agency deployed 20 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses to serve high-demand routes such as Ibadan–Lagos and Ibadan–Abuja. These clean-energy buses not only reduce emissions but also offer a more cost-effective alternative to conventional diesel buses. Complementing these efforts is the ongoing development of new Pacesetter terminals in Ibadan, Lagos, and Abuja, strategically positioned to enhance passenger experience, streamline ticketing, and support long-distance travel.
The reform agenda also prioritised commercial partnerships. PTS now offers dedicated staff transportation services to seven private and public organizations, using 19 specially assigned buses for this purpose. This has diversified revenue streams while deepening the agency’s relevance across sectors.
In terms of workforce transformation, Dr. Dikko’s leadership brought about unprecedented strides. One of the most symbolic gestures was the commencement of gratuity and pension payments dating as far back as 1994, a backlog that had long been a source of discontent. Salaries are now paid regularly and promptly, with the minimum wage structure fully implemented across board. Additionally, many senior staff members were promoted into managerial positions, reflecting a culture of merit and reward for service.
To support the expanded operations, new drivers and bus supervisors were recruited, while critical appointments were made to directorship positions in strategic departments such as Business Planning, Customer Service, and Public Relations. For the first time, the agency created fully functional units including Human Resources, ICT, Legal, Logistics, Media, and more, marking a shift toward a modern, departmentalised approach to public service delivery.
Staff welfare saw significant attention as well. The OYSHIA Health Insurance Scheme was reintroduced to ensure access to affordable healthcare, while special allowances such as overtime, night trip, and festive bonuses were initiated. NYSC Corps Members were also engaged across departments to inject fresh energy and innovation. The introduction of branded uniforms, dress code policies, and official ID cards fostered professionalism and identity among staff.
On the infrastructure front, PTS headquarters and offices were upgraded with modern workstations, laptops, and desktops. A new industrial generator was procured to ensure reliable power, while solar-powered street lights and CCTV surveillance systems were deployed within the premises to improve security and efficiency. Staff now operate in an environment fitted with intercom systems, 24-hour security, and fully stocked technical tools for bus maintenance and operations.
One of the defining features of Dikko’s administration is the bold push for digital transformation. In September 2023, the agency launched the Pacesetter Card, an electronic payment solution that allows passengers to pay fares seamlessly. This was backed by the deployment of a new e-ticketing platform, offering commuters printed receipts and transaction transparency. Internally, the agency adopted digital software for operations, HR, and finance, ensuring that administrative processes are now faster, traceable, and better managed.
Furthermore, all buses under the Omituntun and CNG categories were fitted with GPS trackers and CCTV cameras, helping the agency monitor routes, enforce safety, and deter unethical practices like route diversion and fuel siphoning. To improve digital access, free Wi-Fi was introduced on all buses and within the PTS compound for both passengers and staff.
With a current fleet strength of 81 buses, Dr. Dikko has led a revival that speaks to vision, efficiency, and sustainability. Beyond the visible buses and digital systems, the transformation is felt in how people now rely on PTS for safe, affordable, and dignified transportation in a time of economic strain. Through the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) initiative, more than 15 million passengers have benefitted from subsidised transport, with ₦2.1 billion invested so far by the state government to ease mobility across Oyo.
Looking ahead, Dr. Dikko revealed that PTS will commemorate its two-year anniversary by unveiling a new wave of projects aimed at consolidating its status as a model transit agency. Among the upcoming developments is the complete overhaul of the PTS administrative headquarters, the modernisation of the Ibadan inter-state terminal, and the expansion of inter-state routes to additional major cities.
Also, the agency is set to commission a dedicated CNG Conversion Center and Gas Station, in partnership with Atlas Core Energy and Logistics Ltd, a project that will not only reduce dependency on diesel but also promote green energy solutions within the state’s transport ecosystem.
For Dikko, the journey is far from over.
“This is about giving people access, restoring dignity, and creating a transport system that works for all,” he said.
In just two years, that vision has moved from blueprint to buses on the road, and the wheels are still turning.
