The Federal Government (FG) has urged fleet operators to take advantage of technology to enhance safety and reduce road accidents in Nigeria.
The Minister of Transportation, Sen. Saidu Alkali, gave the advice during the Annual Safety Manager Retreat, organised by Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the retreat is “Driver Management: Enhancing Safety Through Technology.
Alkali, represented by Mr Abubakar Usman, the Transport Director at the Ministry, said that technology had a crucial role to play in reducing road accidents and improving fleet efficiency.
He also urged fleet operators to take advantage of innovations such as telematics and advanced driver assistance systems.
Alkali also emphasised the need for effective driver management, noting that drivers were the lifeblood of fleet operations.
He said that the retreat would provide a unique opportunity for fleet operators to reflect, strategise, and commit to making the roads safer while advancing the efficiency of their operations.
“As technology continues to evolve, so too must our approach to fleet management and safety increase.
“Today, we are tasked with exploring how innovation can empower us to protect lives, enhance productivity, and set new benchmarks for excellence in transportation.
“At the heart of fleet safety, lies the driver. These individuals are the lifeblood of our operations, the ones who navigate our cities and highways, delivering goods, transporting people, and ensuring our economies thrive,” he said.
According to him, managing drivers effectively is not just about maintaining schedules and meeting targets; it is about ensuring their well-being and equipping them with tools that prioritise safety above all.
“Statistics have shown us why this is vital. Road accidents remain a global challenge, often exacerbated by fatigue, distraction, or human error.
“However, these challenges are not insurmountable. By leveraging technology, we can shift the paradigm from reactive to proactive safety measures,”he said.
Alkali said that the role of technology in enhancing safety could not be over-emphasised.
“Today, we are witnessing a technological revolution in fleet management.
“Innovations like telematics, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), artificial intelligence, and real-time monitoring are no longer futuristic concepts they are practical solutions available to us now.
“Let us remember that technology is a tool and it is human commitment that brings it to life. When drivers feel valued and supported, they are more likely to embrace technological solutions and adopt safe driving habits,” he said.
The minister said that the retreat was an opportunity to recalibrate, innovate and re-dedicate ourselves to our shared mission; safer roads, efficient fleets and Sustainable transport system.
He encouraged participants to collaborate and share their experiences, challenges, and successes, and to explore innovative strategies that align with the shared mission of protecting lives and enhancing fleet performance.
