DRIVERS’ CARE INITIATIVE: TRANSPORT WORKERS GET FREE EYE TESTS, DRUG ABUSE WARNINGS AT NYANYA PARK

The Transporters for Tinubu 2027 Support Group took its Drivers’ Care Initiative to Nyanya Motor Park today, the fifth day of an outreach programme aimed at addressing the welfare of transport workers across the Federal Capital Territory.

Hundreds of drivers gathered at the park to access free eye screening, listen to drug abuse sensitization, and learn about loan opportunities through the Transporters Cooperative Society.

Programme Director Mrs. Chinwe Uwaegbute told the gathering that the initiative was designed to give back to transport workers who keep the nation’s economy moving. She noted that land transportation remains the most critical link in the travel chain, as every journey whether by air, water, or rail begins and ends on the road.

“We started last week. This is the fifth park we are visiting, and we have been collecting complaints,” Uwaegbute said. “One key demand we are already taking forward is the establishment of a transport bank. Transport workers need a bank where they can access loans to grow their businesses.”

She explained that the programme also addresses immediate health concerns, particularly eye care. “Some of us cannot drive at night. Some cannot read their Koran any longer. That is why we are here,” she said.

Uwaegbute thanked union leaders for their support, noting that the NURTW chairman attended despite a family emergency. “That shows commitment. We thank you all.”

Engineer Musa Saidu, the FCT Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), described the eye care initiative as invaluable. He said the programme came from the leadership of the three transport unions NURTW, RTEAN, and NARTO who are all aware and fully behind it.

“Eye is life. Without eyes, 99 percent of us are gone,” Saidu said. He reminded drivers that transport is the heart of revenue generation in Nigeria, adding that no vehicle moves without contributing to government coffers. “We are the first people government should recognize. We are also calling for a transport bank, and I believe we will get it soon.”

Lead Optometrist Dr. Kelechi conducted eye screenings and identified several drivers with vision problems that could compromise road safety. He warned against self-medication and the use of unprescribed glasses or eye drops. He also advised drivers to avoid excessive alcohol and physical fights that could lead to eye injuries.

Officer Agabus Ndubuisi of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) told drivers that 50 percent of road accidents in Nigeria are linked to drug use. He warned against the dangers of kolanut, alcohol, and coffee when consumed excessively, and urged drivers to stay away from illicit substances like tramadol and codeine.

Dr. Femi Yeye of the Transporters Cooperative Society outlined financial benefits available to members, including loans for vehicle purchases, major repairs, and school fees. He said the cooperative is fully digitalized, allowing members to track savings and loan eligibility on their phones with no collateral required.

The Drivers’ Care Initiative continues its FCT-wide outreach, with plans to extend to all 36 states.

– Olusemire Jegede