Reps Consider Mandatory Six Monthly Drug Tests For Truck Drivers Over Safety Concerns

Reps Consider Mandatory Six-Monthly Drug Tests for Truck Drivers Over Safety Concerns The House of Representatives is considering a bill that would require truck drivers, particularly those operating heavy-duty vehicles, to undergo drug tests every six months as part of efforts to address road accidents linked to substance abuse. The proposed legislation follows concerns raised by lawmakers over the increasing involvement of tanker and truck drivers in serious road crashes. Lawmaker Peter Uzokwe argued that substance abuse among some commercial drivers contributes to reckless driving, impaired judgment, and avoidable accidents that endanger motorists and pedestrians. Uzokwe said regular drug screening would help identify drivers who may pose safety risks and strengthen measures to improve road transportation standards. He noted that tanker crashes often have devastating consequences due to the nature of the vehicles involved and the hazardous materials they transport. The bill is expected to introduce stricter safety requirements for commercial drivers, with supporters arguing that routine testing would promote accountability and reduce the number of accidents caused by impaired driving. Stakeholders in the transport sector are also expected to contribute to discussions on how the policy would be implemented. Road safety agencies and transport operators have long raised concerns about driver fatigue, poor vehicle maintenance, and unsafe practices among commercial motorists. The proposed drug-testing requirement is being considered as part of broader efforts to improve safety on Nigerian roads.