The Lagos State Government has intensified efforts to improve road safety in Lagos with the launch of its Drivers’ Care Initiative, a comprehensive programme designed to reduce traffic crashes through eye tests, health screening, drug testing, and driver training for commercial transport operators.
The initiative, which commenced on Tuesday in the Lekki axis, drew a large turnout of commercial drivers who participated in free medical checks and road safety education sessions.
Lagos Targets 10,000 Commercial Drivers
Speaking during the outreach, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transport and Logistics, Hassan Adekoya, said the programme was introduced in response to the rising rate of road accidents across the state.
According to him, about 2,000 commercial drivers were expected to benefit from the Lekki phase alone, while the state government aims to reach 10,000 drivers in total.
“Our drivers are the backbone of Lagos’ transport system. When they are healthy and alert, our roads are safer and our economy is stronger,” Adekoya stated.
He explained that the initiative includes:
Free eye examinations
Distribution of corrective glasses
Drug and substance-abuse testing
Safety sensitisation campaigns
Professional driver training and certification
“This is day two of the exercise, and we will continue in Obalende. Governor Sanwo-Olu has directed us to go across Lagos to ensure drivers are medically and mentally fit before getting behind the wheel. This move is directly linked to the rate of accidents in the state,” he added.
Free Training and Certification Within 48 Hours
The General Manager of the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute, Mrs Afusat Tiamiyu, disclosed that Governor Sanwo-Olu mandated the institute to train and certify 2,000 commercial drivers free of charge within 48 hours.
She noted that improving driver competence is critical to reducing avoidable road crashes caused by poor training, fatigue, and impaired driving.
The free certification underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to strengthening transport regulation and improving public safety.
NDLEA Conducts Drug Screening for Drivers
As part of the multi-agency collaboration, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) carried out on-the-spot drug tests and provided counselling services for drivers.
Deputy Commander in charge of Narcotics, NDLEA Lagos Command, Titilope Ogunluyi, described the initiative as proactive and timely.
“Prevention is better than cure. We are conducting drug tests, and anyone who tests positive will receive counselling. Substance abuse among drivers is a serious risk to public safety,” she said.
Ogunluyi emphasised the importance of continuous public education to discourage drug use among commercial drivers, noting that awareness remains a key strategy in combating drug-related accidents.
Drivers, NURTW Commend Sanwo-Olu
Many drivers who participated described the programme as timely, acknowledging that poor eyesight, exhaustion, and substance abuse have contributed significantly to accidents on Lagos roads.
The Branch Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Hakeem Olaiya, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for prioritising driver welfare and road safety.
“We appreciate the governor for this initiative. We will further sensitise our members to avoid drug use and embrace safer driving practices,” Olaiya said.
