Army Launches Fresh Drive To Cut Road Accidents, Protect Fleet
Army Intensifies Focus on Road Safety
THE Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to reduce road accidents and curb the loss of its vehicle fleet with the commencement of the Fourth Edition of the Defensive Driving and Drivers’ Etiquette Workshop for army drivers in Abuja.
The workshop, organised by the Headquarters Supply and Transport of the Nigerian Army, forms part of a broader strategy to improve safety consciousness, professionalism and operational efficiency across army formations nationwide.
Addressing Safety Challenges and Rising Costs
Speaking at the opening ceremony on Saturday, the Chief of Logistics (Army), Major-General Adekunle Adeyinka, said the initiative was designed to tackle recurring safety challenges, rising vehicle maintenance costs and lapses in driving professionalism within the service.
Adeyinka, who was represented by the Deputy Chief of Logistics (Engineering Services), Major-General A. G. Audu, noted that road traffic accidents involving military vehicles had significant operational, financial and reputational implications for the Nigerian Army.
According to him, the increasing cost of maintaining and replacing damaged vehicles made it imperative for the army to invest more in preventive measures rather than reactive repairs.
Driving as a Critical Operational Function
The logistics chief stressed that driving within the Nigerian Army should not be viewed merely as a routine support activity but as a critical operational enabler that directly affects mission success and force protection.
“Every movement of troops, equipment and supplies depends on the skill and discipline of our drivers,” he said. “The way our drivers conduct themselves on the road also shapes public perception and confidence in the Nigerian Army.”
He added that army drivers are frontline representatives of the service and must reflect its core values of discipline, professionalism and respect for rules at all times.
Beyond Skills: The Essence of Defensive Driving
Adeyinka explained that defensive driving goes beyond basic technical ability, emphasising that it requires sound judgement, anticipation of hazards, patience under pressure and restraint in difficult traffic situations.
He noted that proper driving etiquette, including respect for traffic regulations and consideration for other road users, was essential in reducing accidents and fostering a positive civil-military relationship.
The consistent organisation of the workshop, he said, underscored the army’s commitment to continuous training, institutional improvement and the welfare of its personnel.
Comprehensive Training Programme
According to the army, the workshop features a robust and comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom instruction with hands-on practical sessions.
Participants are exposed to modern vehicle familiarisation, driving simulation exercises, interactive discussions, and health and safety awareness programmes aimed at improving alertness and physical fitness behind the wheel.
The programme also includes practical demonstrations designed to help drivers understand vehicle dynamics, emergency response techniques and best practices for operating in both urban and operational environments.
Aligning with Command Philosophy
Earlier, the Corps Commander, Supply and Transport (Army), Major-General Nansak Shagaya, said the workshop aligned with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable and combat-ready force.
Shagaya noted that the army had introduced several new vehicle variants in recent years to meet expanding administrative and operational demands.
Given the high cost of acquiring and maintaining these assets, he said accident prevention and responsible driving had become critical priorities.
Expected Gains from the Initiative
The corps commander expressed optimism that the training would significantly reduce avoidable road accidents, protect lives and equipment, lower fuel consumption and extend the lifespan of military vehicles.
He added that beyond cost savings, the initiative would enhance operational readiness by ensuring that army vehicles are available and reliable when needed for missions.
As the workshop progresses, the Nigerian Army hopes the lessons learned will translate into safer roads, reduced losses and improved efficiency across its transport operations.
