The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has launched several initiatives to improve the health, safety, and sustainability of truck operators and enhance the state’s maritime logistics system. These include free eye exams with medication and glasses, substance abuse awareness and drug testing, and access to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks through structured financing, introduced at the first Maritime Logistics Stakeholders’ Forum in Ikeja.
Represented by Special Adviser Hon. Sola Giwa, the Governor said the forum aims to promote safety, welfare, and sustainability in haulage and freight by bringing together government, regulators, unions, and private operators to address challenges and plan for the future.
Sanwo-Olu urged truck operators to take advantage of a partnership with NARTO and UBA to purchase CNG trucks via credit facilities, highlighting this as a strategic investment to reduce accidents, emissions, and improve efficiency.
Transportation Commissioner Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi called the shift to CNG trucks a bold move toward environmental goals, while Hon. Giwa mentioned plans to better regulate the electronic call-up system to reduce traffic congestion near ports.
Permanent Secretary Mr. Olawale Musa emphasized the forum’s focus on safety, sustainability, and truckers’ welfare. Dr. Kayode Opeifa of the Nigerian Railway Corporation encouraged full support for the initiative to modernize maritime logistics.
Comrade Hassan Adekoya, Senior Special Assistant on Transport and Logistics, declared the end of unsafe trucks on Lagos roads, committing to allowing only CNG-powered trucks for safety.
NARTO President Alhaji Yusuf Lawal Othman praised the government’s efforts, and UBA’s Regional Manager Mr. Ernest Omoreghe announced a ₦150 billion financing facility to help operators upgrade fleets with safer, eco-friendly trucks.
NDLEA representatives highlighted the importance of drug screening to improve road safety, pledging continued cooperation with the government.
The forum included officials from various transport and safety agencies, and the Lagos State Government expects these measures to boost safety, productivity, environmental goals, and Lagos’ position as Nigeria’s logistics hub.