By Kayode Olopade
The Lagos State Government has launched a far-reaching strategy aimed at reducing the persistent truck-related accidents linked to maritime and logistics operations across the state.
The initiative was unveiled on Wednesday during a high-level Stakeholders’ Engagement with Maritime and Logistics Practitioners held in Ikeja. The forum, themed “Charting the Future of Maritime Logistics: Safety, Sustainability and Stakeholder Partnership,” brought together truck unions, freight forwarders, shipping and terminal operators, security agencies, and other industry players.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented at the event, said the renewed efforts were a response to years of concerns over safety lapses and the deteriorating condition of trucks plying Lagos roads.
As part of the new strategy, he announced the introduction of free eye tests for all truck drivers in Lagos, an initiative targeted at reducing visual impairment-related accidents. The governor also disclosed an innovative loan scheme for the acquisition of CNG-powered trucks, designed to phase out rickety vehicles that have become a major safety risk.
To combat substance abuse among drivers, the state will also embark on a broad sensitisation campaign and expanded drug-use awareness programmes.
“Today’s gathering is not merely a meeting; it is an affirmation of our collective responsibility to shape the future of an industry that serves as the backbone of commerce in Lagos and Nigeria,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Maritime and logistics play a crucial role in national revenue, employment and industrial productivity. We must therefore commit to shared understanding and united action.”
The governor expressed worry over the prevalence of aging, poorly maintained trucks with faulty braking systems, weakened frames and worn tyres, saying they pose grave danger to road users and hamper Lagos' ambition to become a globally competitive logistics hub.
He emphasised that the new financing arrangement being developed with partnering financial institutions will enable truck owners to replace old vehicles with modern, safer fleets through flexible repayment structures.
“This is an economic investment. It will reduce road accidents, prevent cargo loss and eliminate delays caused by breakdowns,” he added.
In his goodwill message, Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), represented by ACGN Abubakar Liman, commended the Lagos Government for prioritising safety in the trucking sector.
He said the agency fully supports the planned free eye tests, routine drug screenings and substance abuse sensitisation for truckers.
“These measures will significantly enhance compliance and reduce accidents across the state,” Marwa said, while urging parents, religious leaders and community influencers to join hands in the nationwide War Against Drug Abuse (WADA).
“If we do not come out to fight this menace, it will continue fighting us back,” he warned.
Earlier, Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa—represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olawale Musa—said the government is developing a robust health-support system for truckers as part of the broader safety reforms.
“Our goal is to work closely with associations and operators to build a system that keeps drivers healthy and capable of performing their vital role in the economy,” he said, urging stakeholders to be open-minded as the state steers the sector toward sustainability
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