Drivers' Care Initiative: Transport Workers Receive Free Eye Treatment, Drug Abuse Warnings in Abuja
Commercial drivers in the Federal Capital Territory are benefiting from free health services under the Transporters for Tinubu 2027 Drivers' Care Initiative, now in its fourth day of outreach across motor parks in Abuja.
The programme, which held its latest session at Dei Dei Motor Park on Wednesday, offers free eye testing and treatment, drug abuse sensitisation, and access to soft loans through the Transporters Cooperative Society.
Programme Coordinator Mrs. Chinwe Uwaegbute said the initiative was designed to address the health and welfare challenges that transport operators face daily, noting that driver fitness directly impacts road safety.
"Transportation is central to national development, and drivers work hard to keep the economy moving. But the nature of their work exposes them to health challenges, fatigue, and welfare concerns that affect road safety," Uwaegbute said.
She emphasised the importance of regular eye checks for drivers, many of whom spend long hours on the road. "Drivers may be confident on familiar routes, but that confidence must be backed by regular medical checks. Today is day four of this initiative, and we are glad to bring it to drivers at Dei Dei Park. We want to ensure their eyes are healthy and their bodies are fit," she added.
Optometrist Dr. Kelechi, who conducted the eye tests at the park, identified several drivers with vision impairments that could compromise their ability to drive safely. Those diagnosed received free treatment and glasses where necessary.
The initiative also featured a strong warning from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on the dangers of substance abuse among drivers. NDLEA Representative Officer Ndubuisi Agabus told the gathering that drug use is a major contributor to road accidents in Nigeria.
"A large number of the accidents that happen on our highways are a result of drug abuse," Agabus said. He warned against commonly used substances such as kolanut, alcohol, and coffee, which he said can impair judgment when consumed excessively.
He specifically raised concern over the sale of high-dose Tramadol in motor parks, describing the 250mg variant as banned and dangerous. "When someone buys and takes 250mg of Tramadol, their perception on the road changes. They may see a person crossing and think it's a fly passing," he said.
Agabus urged drivers to avoid influences that promote drug use and to prioritise the safety of their passengers and families. "Your wife loves you. Your children want you home. Your parents expect you alive. Don't drink and drive. Don't abuse any substance when you are about to drive," he said.
On the financial front, Andy Okoho of the Transporters Cooperative outlined the benefits available to members, including savings for vehicle purchases, emergency funds, and low-interest loans disbursed within 48 hours. He also highlighted the cooperative's mobile app, which allows members to track their savings in real time.
"When you register, you get an app. If you save 50,000 naira, you wake up and see it on your phone," Okoho explained.
Stakeholders at the event commended the initiative. Chairman of the Road Transport Employees Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), FCT Chapter, Alhaji Musa Saidu, praised the Federal Government's recent interventions in the transport sector, including the 50% passenger fare reduction during the Christmas season and the provision of CNG buses.
"This is a president that has done a lot. We saw these opportunities during Jonathan's era, and since then, it is President Tinubu who has revived them. May Allah grant him long life," Saidu said.
The Drivers' Care Initiative is expected to continue across all motor parks in the FCT in the coming weeks, with plans to extend the programme to other states.