Reps Propose 6-Monthly Drug Tests For Truck Drivers To Curb Road Crashes

The House of Representatives is considering a bill that seeks to make drug testing compulsory for truck drivers every six months as part of measures to reduce tanker and trailer accidents across Nigeria.

The bill’s sponsor, Peter Uzokwe, who represents Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency of Anambra State, said substance abuse among heavy-duty vehicle operators remains a major factor contributing to road crashes.

Uzokwe disclosed this on Tuesday during an interactive session with stakeholders in the petroleum sector, including the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).

According to him, the proposed legislation, which is awaiting further legislative consideration, would require all truck drivers to undergo drug tests at least twice a year.

“It is in my bill, coming up for second and third reading, that all truck drivers should be tested for drugs at least once every six months,” he said.

The lawmaker explained that training alone cannot guarantee road safety if drivers engage in substance abuse, noting that drugs can impair judgment and affect their ability to operate heavy-duty vehicles safely.

“You can train a driver who is a drug addict. He may drive well, but once the substance takes control, he will no longer drive the way he was trained,” Uzokwe said.

He added that many tanker and trailer accidents could be prevented if drivers remained mentally alert while behind the wheel.

“You can see the trailer and tanker accidents we are having. These are things that can be prevented if drivers are in their right senses,” he said.

The proposed drug testing requirement comes amid growing concerns over frequent accidents involving articulated vehicles, which have often resulted in loss of lives, injuries and destruction of property.

Uzokwe said the initiative was part of broader efforts to improve road safety and protect Nigerians from avoidable tragedies caused by reckless driving and impaired vehicle operation.