The support group, Transporters for Tinubu 2027, has extended its free medical outreach to transport workers at the Dei-Dei Motor Park in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
The initiative, known as the Drivers’ Care Initiative, is part of an ongoing programme designed to support the health and welfare of commercial transport operators across the FCT. Similar outreach events have previously been held at Jabi Motor Park and other locations within the territory.
The programme focuses on three key areas: free eye examinations and treatment, awareness campaigns against drug abuse among drivers, and financial empowerment through access to soft loans provided by the Transporters Cooperative Society.
Speaking during the outreach, Programme Director Chinwe Uwaegbute said the initiative was created to address the unique health and welfare challenges faced by transport workers.
According to her, commercial drivers play a critical role in sustaining the nation’s economy but are often exposed to fatigue, health risks and welfare challenges that can impact road safety.
“Transportation is central to national development, and drivers work tirelessly to keep the economy moving. However, the nature of their work exposes them to health challenges that require deliberate attention,” she said.
Uwaegbute emphasised the importance of regular eye examinations for drivers, noting that good vision is essential for safe driving.
“Drivers may be confident on familiar routes, but that confidence must be supported by regular medical checks. This is the fourth day of the initiative, and we are pleased to bring it to drivers at Dei-Dei Park. Our goal is to ensure that their eyes are healthy and their bodies fit for the demanding work they do,” she added.
She also stressed that road safety requires collaboration among key stakeholders, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), transport unions and private sector partners.
Uwaegbute noted that the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which emphasises human capacity development and social responsibility.
During the outreach, optometrist Dr. Kelechi conducted free eye tests for drivers and provided basic treatment for those experiencing vision challenges that could affect their driving ability.
A representative of the Transporters Cooperative, Andy Okoho, also highlighted financial support opportunities available to drivers through cooperative membership.
He explained that the scheme allows transport workers to save towards vehicle ownership, access emergency funds and obtain low-interest loans within 48 hours.
Okoho added that the cooperative operates a digital platform that enables members to monitor their savings through a mobile application.
“When you register, you get an app that allows you to track your savings. If you save ₦50,000, you can easily confirm it on your phone,” he said.
According to him, the cooperative aims to help drivers gradually become vehicle owners while also providing financial support during emergencies.
Also speaking at the event, an officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Ndubuisi Agabus, warned commercial drivers about the dangers of drug abuse.
He noted that a significant number of road accidents in Nigeria are linked to substance abuse and urged drivers to avoid drugs or substances that impair judgment while driving.
Agabus explained that even commonly consumed substances such as kola nut, alcohol and coffee could affect mood and decision making when taken excessively.
He also raised concerns about the circulation of high-dose Tramadol in motor parks and markets, describing the 250mg variant as dangerous and banned.
“When someone takes 250mg of Tramadol, their perception changes. They may see a pedestrian crossing the road and misinterpret what they are seeing,” he warned.
He further linked drug abuse to broader security concerns, including kidnapping and armed robbery, and urged drivers to resist peer pressure that encourages substance abuse.
Agabus encouraged transport unions to collaborate with the NDLEA in promoting drug-free motor parks across the country.
Chairman of the Road Transport Employees Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), FCT Chapter, Alhaji Musa Saidu, commended the policies of the Tinubu administration, citing initiatives such as the 50 per cent passenger fare reduction introduced during the last Christmas season and the deployment of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses for intra-city and interstate transportation.
He urged drivers to prioritise safety and avoid drug abuse, while also calling on organisers to sustain the Drivers’ Care Initiative for the long-term benefit of transport workers.
Organisers said the outreach programme will continue in other motor parks across the FCT in the coming days, with plans to engage transport union leaders and grassroots stakeholders in delivering health services and strengthening support for the Renewed Hope agenda.
About Transporters for Tinubu 2027
Transporters for Tinubu 2027 is a support group dedicated to mobilising members of the transport community in support of the re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while promoting the welfare, safety and professional development of transport workers across Nigeria.
