The Lagos State Government has officially launched a large scale health and safety programme aimed at improving the wellbeing of 10000 commercial drivers operating across the state. The initiative, introduced through a partnership between the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Health, is designed to tackle the growing concerns over driver fitness, road safety, and passenger protection in Nigeria busiest city.
According to state officials, the programme will provide comprehensive medical screenings for drivers, including eye tests, blood pressure checks, blood sugar assessments, and general physical examinations. Health experts involved in the exercise say many commercial drivers spend long hours behind the wheel under stressful traffic conditions, often neglecting their health. These conditions, they warn, can lead to fatigue, poor vision, or untreated illnesses that increase the risk of road accidents.
Beyond medical checks, the initiative includes mandatory safety training sessions focused on defensive driving techniques, emergency response procedures, and basic first aid. Drivers will also receive education on mental health awareness, stress management, and the dangers of drug and alcohol use while on duty. Officials say the aim is to address both the physical and psychological pressures drivers face daily.
The Commissioner for Transportation noted that Lagos records thousands of road incidents yearly, many linked to human factors rather than mechanical faults. He explained that ensuring drivers are medically fit and safety conscious is a critical step toward reducing accidents and improving commuter confidence in public transport.
Transport union leaders have welcomed the programme, describing it as a practical intervention that recognizes the role drivers play in the state economy. They pledged to encourage full participation among members and enforce compliance with safety standards introduced under the initiative.
The government also plans to create a health database for participating drivers to enable periodic monitoring and follow up treatments where necessary. Officials say the long term goal is to make regular health certification a requirement for commercial driving in Lagos.
Road safety advocates believe the programme could set a model for other states if properly implemented. They stress that sustained funding, continuous training, and strong enforcement will determine its success in delivering safer roads and healthier drivers.
