Experts Raise Alarm Over Unsafe Trucking Practices as NARTO Begins Mandatory Driver Re-Training

Experts Raise Alarm Over Unsafe Trucking Practices as NARTO Begins Mandatory Driver Re-Training

Amid mounting concerns over rising road crashes involving heavy-duty trucks, transport safety experts have warned that dangerous practices such as brake patching, drunk driving and poor licensing compliance are fueling preventable fatalities across Nigeria’s highways.

The concerns emerged in Lagos during a new round of mandatory driver re-training organised by the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), aimed at curbing the increasing rate of avoidable truck-related accidents.

The capacity-building programme targets active haulage drivers and focuses on practical, on-the-job safety skills, including understanding road signs, handling emergencies and maintaining proper vehicle control.

Accidents ‘Mostly Preventable,’ Rescue Officials Say

Rescue team leader, Ayinde Kasali Olaiya, who works along major truck corridors, said many tragic incidents stem from mechanical negligence and alcohol use.

“Many trucks don’t have good brakes. Some drivers patch brakes with area boys on the road,” he said.
“If you drink, don’t drive. If you drive, don’t drink.”

He noted that increased coordination between government rescue teams, the police and the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) has helped reduce some incidents but warned that dangerous behaviours remain widespread.

Wrong Licences, Poor Compliance Worsen Risks

Transport safety consultant, Adeleye Adetokunbo Thomas, who facilitated the training, revealed that most drivers operating high-capacity vehicles do not possess the correct licence category.

“Drivers of high-capacity trucks require a Class G licence, but most of those here only had Class D,” he said.
“Only three drivers had the proper documentation. They now have two months to upgrade.”

He added that quarterly follow-ups will be conducted to ensure compliance with licensing and safety standards.

Drivers Admit Training Is Changing Their Attitude

Some drivers expressed optimism that the sessions will improve their operational behaviour.
Abass Abdul-Laziz, a six-year veteran driver, described the programme as eye-opening.

“It really taught us a lot. I appreciate what they taught us today.”

Another driver, Tosin Ali, said the training emphasized patience, road signs and safe speeds.

“Safety comes first. Getting there safely is more important than getting there fast.”

Participants also stressed the importance of focus, discipline and avoiding alcohol while on duty.

NARTO Pushes for Safer Roads

NARTO’s Deputy State Chairman, Alhaji Ayinla O Kamaldeen who represented the State Chairman, said the initiative underscores the association’s commitment to reducing deaths linked to haulage operations.

“Our primary goal is to protect lives. After that, we protect the vehicles, because they are investments,” he said.

He added that NARTO is working to forge long-term safety partnerships and plans to hold the re-training every six months.

Next Steps

Regulatory agencies, rescue teams and transport unions are expected to commence joint monitoring exercises focusing on brake systems, licence verification and alcohol enforcement. NARTO says it aims to build a continuous safety education pipeline to strengthen the haulage sector and reduce road crashes nationwide.