In a bid to ensure safety and boost service delivery of drivers and dispatch riders of corporate organisations, the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) has partnered with the Lagos State Driver’s Institute (LASDRI) on training and recertification of its drivers and riders.
Speaking at the event held over the weekend at the Nigerian Insurers Association House, Victoria Island Lagos, with the theme: “Safety, Compliance and Mental Health in Driving”, the General Manager of LASDRI, Mrs. Tiamiyu Afusat said the participants should not see the event as a mere gathering of corporate drivers and riders but as a community committed to promoting safety, well-being and responsible behaviour on our roads.
According to her, defensive driving is more than just a skill, it is a mindset and about being aware of our surroundings, anticipating potential hazards and making informed decisions that prioritise safety for ourselves and others. She said in an active and bustling environment like Lagos, where traffic dynamics are ever-changing, mastering safety skills is essential.
Tiamiyu further explained that the pressures of daily driving can take a toll on someone’s well-being, adding that we must recognise and take proactive steps to manage them. She said a calm and focused mind not only enhances driving abilities but also contributes to a more harmonious road environment.
She admonished the participants to engage fully in the session by asking questions, sharing experiences, and learning from one another, noting that together, we can foster a culture of safety and empathy on our roads.
Speaking earlier, the Director-General of the Nigerian Insurers Association, Mrs. Bola Odukale, said every employer has an obligation to provide a safe workplace and manage the risk of psychological hazards. Building a mentally healthy workplace can have significant safety and other benefits for drivers, other workers, their employers, and other road users.
She said the choice of partnering with the Lagos State Driver’s Institute hinged on the fact that the Lagos State government prioritises safety and compliance among road users. She urged other corporate organisations to use the Lagos State Driver’s Institute’s service platform to improve their drivers.
About 50 drivers and riders are expected to be trained in the first batch of the exercise.
