The Lagos State Drivers’ Institute (LASDRI) has collaborated with the Lagos Chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to launch its annual ‘Ember Months’ safety advocacy campaign.
The campaign, flagged off at Ketu Motor Park, Ketu, Lagos, is themed: “Drivers Education, An Antidote To Road Accidents And Well-Being.”
Addressing road union members and transport sector stakeholders at the event, the General Manager of LASDRI, Tiamiyu Afusat, emphasised the necessity of the ‘Ember Months’ safety advocacy.
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She noted that Lagos roads experience significant strain during this period, often made worse by reckless driving.
Tiamiyu highlighted that the partnership with relevant stakeholders would focus on raising awareness about specific causes of road accidents.
She stated the campaign serves as a platform to educate road users, particularly commercial drivers, on the dangers of speeding and reckless driving.
Furthermore, the LASDRI boss stressed that the synergy aligns with the United Nations Decade of Action for road safety (2021-2030), which aims to reduce road traffic fatalities and injuries.
She added that driver education complements the advocacy by providing the skills needed to combat heightened risks, such as increased vehicular movement, adverse weather, driver error, and speeding during this season.
Speaking on the partnership, the state NURTW Secretary, Teslim Usman, stated that the advocacy focuses on safety while preventing economic losses from accidents.
He noted that reducing the social and socioeconomic costs associated with road carnage supports economic sustainability and contributes to the Gross Domestic Product.
Usman added that the collaboration would foster safety awareness and a collective responsibility for safer roads, especially during the festive seasons.
In support of the initiative, Adeniji Olufunke, Deputy Director of Safety and representative of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and Engr. Ogabi Taofik, Zonal Head Ojota for the Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Services (VIS), urged the motoring public to regard traffic management officials as partners in ensuring their well-being.
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They advised drivers to consistently monitor their vehicle’s condition to avoid posing a threat to themselves and others.
A key part of the event included free health services for drivers, with over 150 attendees benefitting from free eye screening, blood pressure and blood sugar tests, and health counselling provided by Lagos State Health Officials.
