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Lagos State Government, yesterday, flagged off the acquisition of 2,000 CNG trucks for articulated vehicle drivers in the state. The state government, through a partnership with a bank, announced that it would ensure truck drivers acquire new CNG trucks.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who flagged off the programme during a stakeholders’ engagement with maritime and logistics practitioners, said the effort is an affirmation of the collective responsibility to shape the future of an industry that serves as the heartbeat of commerce in Lagos and indeed in Nigeria.
“The maritime and logistics sector contributes massively to national revenue, employment, industrial productivity, and stability of the supply chains. It is, therefore, deserving of sustained engagement, shared understanding, and united action.
The governor stated that for many decades, the movement of goods within the port corridors had sustained businesses across Nigeria and West Africa. He said the state government recognises the challenges confronting the sector.
He added: “We are familiar with the issues of road safety, ageing truck fleets, avoidable breakdowns, health-related risks among operators, unregulated activities around port corridors, and the need for stronger compliance with international standards. These challenges cannot be ignored, and they must not be left unresolved.”
The governor added that a modern maritime logistics system thrives on standards. In his welcome address, Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, said the goal is to work closely with unions, associations, and relevant agencies to protect truckers and strengthen their capacity, ensuring they remain healthy, alert, and able to perform their vital role safely.
In his goodwill message, Commissioner for Transport, Seun Osiyemi, said: “Our intentional investment in free eye screening for truck operators, substance abuse sensitisation, and drug testing initiatives reflects government’s firm stance on protecting lives, improving truck operator welfare, and reducing avoidable road accidents.
