By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art Ultra Premium Service Centre for the people of North Dayi, marking a significant step in expanding access to driver licensing and vehicle registration services in the Volta Region.
The newly commissioned facility, located within the Volta Region but serving the North Dayi enclave, forms part of the Authority’s national agenda to decentralise its operations and bring services closer to the public.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, said the new centre will offer the full scope of DVLA services without the need for residents to travel long distances.
According to him, the office has been equipped to deliver all classes of services, from licensing to vehicle registration, and will operate strictly under the approved premium service charges.
“You don’t need to travel anywhere to have your services rendered. When you wake up, bring your documents and everything will be done here. I can assure you there will be no ‘middlemen’ to overcharge you, fees will be strictly according to the premium standards,” he stated.
He added that the Member of Parliament for the area has placed a 10% support allocation to ease service delivery for constituents, marking the first time such a gesture has accompanied the opening of a DVLA office.
Mr. Kotey further announced the introduction of a new RFID-embedded number plate system, explaining that the prefix for the North Dayi office will now be “ND”, which will appear on all newly issued registration plates.
He also revealed that the authority is expanding nationwide: “We came to meet 34 offices and the plan is to add 40 more. So far, we have delivered 10 since February. Next year we begin instant licensing, clearances for contract staff, and enhanced public education on the new number plate system.”
The Member of Parliament for North Dayi, Joycelyn Quashie, expressed profound gratitude to the DVLA leadership for choosing North Dayi for such a major facility. “There were many places this premium DVLA office could have been located, but it was brought here. We are praying for the DVLA CEO, for strength, good health and more opportunities, so that when there are good things to be shared, North Dayi will always be remembered. This is just the beginning of the good things to come,” she said.
The District Chief Executive, Ernest Adevor, also commended the DVLA and the MP, saying the facility aligns with ongoing national development efforts.
“This has happened under the leadership of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, who is extending development projects across the country, and we in North Dayi are not left out. This office will boost the local economy because businesses here will benefit from increased activity,” he noted.
The ceremony featured cultural performances, followed by the cutting of the ribbon, unveiling of a commemorative plaque, and a facility tour led by the DVLA CEO and his entourage.
The new centre is expected to significantly improve service accessibility, reduce travel costs for residents, and contribute to local economic growth.
