The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and APM Terminals Apapa have commenced drug and alcohol testing for external truck drivers operating within the port as part of efforts to ensure proactive risk management, safer operations and the protection of people, infrastructure and cargo.

The substance abuse campaign, conducted at the port entrance with the support of Port Police and Port Health Services at the weekend, screened truck drivers using breathalyzer tests.

Out of 30 drivers tested during the latest exercise, three were found to be under the influence of alcohol, reflecting an improvement compared to previous exercises.

Leading the initiative, the Lagos Port Manager, Adebowale Lawal, emphasised the importance of drivers fitness in ensuring safe port operations:

He said individuals operating heavy-duty trucks must be fully alert and in the right state of mind, noting that safety within the port environment depends on this.

Lawal explained that regular testing will act as a strong deterrent and help reduce substance abuse among truck drivers.

“We appreciate APM Terminals Apapa for driving this important collaboration, which aligns with our shared commitment to maintaining a safe port ecosystem,” he said.
Managing Director of APM Terminals Apapa, Kamal Alhraishat, highlighted that the initiative is part of a broader safety commitment:

“We recently achieved a significant milestone of 636 days without a Lost Time Injury, and our priority is to sustain and build on this performance. Extending safety measures beyond our workforce to include external truck drivers is a necessary step,” he said.

He noted that driving under the influence puts the driver at direct risk, while also endangering other road users, terminal personnel, and critical port assets.

Alhraisha stressed that a single lapse can lead to serious incidents involving trucks, container handling equipment, or cargo.

According to him, this initiative is about protecting lives, safeguarding assets,l and strengthening a safety-first culture across the port community.

Describing substance abuse among some external drivers as a real concern, he noted that consistent testing, combined with awareness, will help drive behavioral change over time.