The Lagos State Drivers Institute (LASDRI) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving road safety across the state through structured training, certification and multi-stakeholders’ collaboration targeting commercial drivers that constitute the majority of road users.
Speaking with LEADERSHIP Sunday, the general manager of LASDRI, Mrs Tiamiyu Afusat, emphasised that the institute, under the supervision of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, is actively working to instill professionalism in drivers.
“Driving is a profession. If doctors are proud to say they are doctors, drivers should also come out and say ‘I am a driver and I am proud,’” she said.
According to her, the institute established in 2007 was created as a corrective response to reckless driving, noncompliance with traffic regulations and the rise of uncertified drivers on Lagos roads.
“Before the establishment of this place, you know, people drive bumper to bumper. We had drunk drivers taking the wheels, and people cut corners to get licences.
“As a way forward, LASDRI has ordered professional mandatory training for all commercial drivers annually. Upon completion, drivers receive a certificate of Lagos driver, which is enforced by regulatory agencies like Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS). Hence, the Institute also runs a two-day rehabilitation programme for drivers sanctioned for traffic violations.
“We are graduating defensive drivers here every year. We may not reduce traffic accidents to zero, but we can bring them down to the barest minimum,” Afusat stated.
According to her, the institute’s approach focuses not only on theory but also practical knowledge of road signs, lane discipline, driver responsibility and accident-avoidance strategies while taking drivers from scratch like a teacher in a classroom.
On partnerships, explained that LASDRI has intensified collaboration with both private and government stakeholders to extend its reach.
“We’ve trained over 2,000 drivers from the Association of Maritime Truck Owners this year alone. We’re also working with the Nigerian Insurance Association, Office of the Deputy Governor, and even private companies,” she said.
