NYSC trains drivers to avoid drinking, others to guard against road accidents

The National Youth Service Corps has trained the drivers working with the scheme to be conscious of their health and conditions of their vehicles at all times in order to avoid road accidents and fatalities. 

The NYSC Director-General, Maj Gen Shuaibu Ibrahim, stated this on Thursday while speaking at a workshop organised for NYSC Drivers, with the theme, “The Driver’s Health Status: A Panacea for Accident Management and Control,” held at the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters, Maitama in Abuja. 

This was contained in a statement issued by the Corps’ Director, Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, and obtained by CaracalReports. 

According to Shuaibu, the physical and mental health of all drivers is very critical to their overall performance, as he noted that only a healthy driver would be alert as well as be efficient in driving. 

“He stated further that in order to avoid fatal road accidents, all drivers must take their health seriously and adopt healthy lifestyles. 

“He said road accidents have claimed many lives in recent times with some of the causative factors attributable to stress, sleep deprivation, fatigue, drunkenness, illness, bad eyesight, and drug abuse, among others,” the statement added.   

The DG noted that the management was committed to the enhancement of the welfare and efficiency of workers and would also intensify efforts aimed at safe driving among NYSC drivers.

“Apart from regular servicing of vehicles, we have accorded priority attention to the drivers’ health, especially through routine medical checks. Don’t joke with your health because you are very important to us and we cherish you. Be very honest in your dealings and we don’t want to hear any case of misconduct from any of you. I am happy that NYSC Staff are very wonderful people,” he said.

He further advised the workshop participants who were drawn from all NYSC formations across the country to adhere to approved speed limits, carry out necessary checks on their vehicles before driving, and avoid alcoholic drinks, and night journeys, among other risks.

The Director, General Services, Emmanuel Attah, in his welcome remarks said the promotion of healthy living at the workplace requires a holistic approach involving both private and official lifestyles.

He urged the workshop participants to use the benefits of the workshop to improve their personal health, lifestyles and attitude to work.