Drivers Applaud LASG as Free Eye Screening, Drug Tests, Recertification Training Begin

Commercial drivers in Lagos State have commended the Lagos State Government (LASG) following the commencement of a free eye screening and drug testing programme, alongside complimentary recertification training for 2,000 drivers, in furtherance of the state’s commitment to road safety and driver welfare.

The initiative was officially flagged off on Monday at the Lilypond Terminal, Ijora. Speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transport and Logistics, Hon. Hassan Adekoya, explained that the programme would be implemented across four major driver parks, starting with Lilypond Terminal and later extended to the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Obalende, and Iyana Iba.

Hon. Adekoya described the programme as a social inclusion initiative anchored on Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda, noting that professional drivers are critical to Lagos State’s economic activities.

He said prioritising the health and well-being of drivers directly translates to improved road safety for all road users, while also underscoring the government’s commitment to the welfare of those in the transportation sector.

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While commending Governor Sanwo-Olu for approving free health checks for 10,000 drivers across the state, Hon. Adekoya also announced the inclusion of free recertification training for 2,000 drivers, to be conducted by the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute (LASDRI), as part of the scheme.

In her remarks, the General Manager of LASDRI, Mrs Afusat Tiamiyu, affirmed the institute’s readiness to deliver the free recertification training, stressing that drivers remain a vital link in the logistics and transportation value chain. She noted that the government’s decision to prioritise drivers’ training and health reflects its recognition of their importance to economic growth and public safety.

The Managing Director of Vision Spring, Mrs Abimbola Ogundirahun, described eyesight as a critical factor in safe driving and applauded the initiative, stating that good vision is essential for drivers’ safety and that of other road users. She observed that despite the installation of road signs and safety infrastructure by the government, poor eyesight could undermine these measures and increase the risk of accidents.

Mrs Ogundirahun urged drivers to embrace regular eye examinations and praised the Lagos State Drivers’ Care initiative for providing free eye screening and corrective eyeglasses at no cost to drivers diagnosed with visual impairments.

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Also speaking, the Chairman of the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Lagos Chapter, Alhaji Kayode Ogunowo, cautioned drivers against engaging in habits that could endanger their lives and those of other road users. He expressed appreciation to the state government for facilitating credit schemes that enable truck owners to acquire Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks.

A representative of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Ms Lolade Bobagun, disclosed that the bank is ready to provide banking services to drivers, including the issuance of free, branded ATM cards, the cost of which has been fully covered by the Lagos State Government.

Officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), led by Assistant Commander (Narcotics), Dick Mulikat Adunni, were also present at the event. The team conducted substance abuse sensitisation sessions and administered free drug tests, warning drivers against the use of illicit substances that could impair vision, judgment, and overall road safety.

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