Lagos launches a driver welfare safety programme with free eye tests, drug screening and training to reduce accidents and boost road safety

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has launched a driver welfare safety programme offering free eye screening, drug tests and recertification training to commercial drivers in a bid to improve driver fitness and reduce road accidents.

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The programme was flagged off on Monday at the Lilypond Terminal, Ijora, where commercial drivers described the intervention as timely and impactful for those operating daily on the state’s roads.

Under the initiative, 10,000 drivers will receive free health checks, while 2,000 drivers will undergo complimentary recertification training through the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute.

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transport and Logistics, Hassan Adekoya, said the scheme would run across four major driver parks, starting at Lilypond Terminal before moving to the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Obalende and Iyana Iba.

Hassan Adekoya explained that the programme is embedded in the THEMES+ Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and reflects a social inclusion approach that recognises professional drivers as central to the state’s economic productivity.

Hassan Adekoya said that prioritising the health and competence of drivers directly enhances road safety and protects lives, adding that the approvals for free eye screening, drug tests and recertification training underline the government’s commitment to the transport workforce.

General Manager of the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute, Mrs Afusat Tiamiyu, said the institute is fully prepared to deliver the recertification training.

Mrs Afusat Tiamiyu described drivers as a critical link in the logistics value chain and noted that improved training and health standards would translate into safer roads and more efficient movement of goods and people.

Managing Director of Vision Spring, Mrs Abimbola Ogundirahun, emphasised the importance of good eyesight for drivers, describing vision as a vital safety factor.

Mrs Abimbola Ogundirahun noted that road signs and safety infrastructure become ineffective when drivers suffer undiagnosed visual impairments.

Mrs Abimbola Ogundirahun commended the initiative for providing free eye screening and corrective eyeglasses to drivers diagnosed with vision challenges and urged regular eye examinations as part of safety routines.

Chairman of the National Association of Road Transport Owners, Lagos Chapter, Alhaji Kayode Ogunowo, advised drivers to avoid unsafe habits that could endanger lives.

Alhaji Kayode Ogunowo also praised the state government for facilitating credit schemes that allow truck owners to acquire Compressed Natural Gas vehicles.

A representative of United Bank for Africa, Ms Lolade Bobagun, said the bank is prepared to provide tailored banking services for drivers, including free branded ATM cards funded by the Lagos State Government.

Officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency conducted substance abuse sensitisation and free drug testing at the event, led by Assistant Commander Dick Mulikat Adunni.

The officials warned that illicit drug use can impair vision, judgment and overall road safety.

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Other dignitaries present included the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transport, Education and Innovation, Mr Tobi Idowu, alongside representatives of transport unions and key stakeholders in the sector.