The Lagos State Government has introduced a new programme to help truck owners acquire brand-new vehicles through affordable, well-structured credit facilities.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced the initiative during a stakeholders’ engagement organised by the Ministry of Transportation for maritime and logistics operators. The event, themed “Charting the Future of Maritime Logistics: Safety, Sustainability, and Stakeholder Partnership,” focused on improving safety and strengthening logistics operations across the state.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Transportation, Sola Giwa, the governor said the state is partnering with financial institutions and development organisations to develop flexible loan products that will support fleet renewal. Through the partnership with the United Bank for Africa (UBA), truckers will have access to 2,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)–powered trucks.
“This initiative will enable operators to modernise their fleets, reduce highway breakdowns, improve turnaround time, and comply with international haulage standards,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“It is not just economic — it is a life-saving investment that will limit accidents, prevent cargo losses, and reduce gridlock caused by broken-down trucks.”
The governor noted key challenges affecting the sector, including ageing fleets, frequent breakdowns, safety lapses, health risks among operators, and unregulated activities along port corridors. He said these issues necessitated the new intervention.
To strengthen enforcement, the government will expand inspection checkpoints along Apapa, Tincan, Lekki, and adjoining corridors, ensuring that trucks meet minimum safety standards. Checks will cover brakes, tyres, reflectors, lights, axle integrity, and overall mechanical stability.
“The intention is not to punish but to protect,” Sanwo-Olu said. “No responsible government can ignore preventable accidents that destroy lives and livelihoods.”
He also announced a free eye-screening and visual health programme for truck drivers, including comprehensive tests, early detection of vision problems, and immediate provision of corrective lenses and medication.
“Clear vision reduces accidents, improves alertness, and enhances overall road safety,” he said.
Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, described the CNG truck initiative as a major step towards cleaner, more sustainable freight operations. He said other reforms — including substance-abuse sensitisation and drug-testing for truck drivers — reflect the state’s commitment to safety and operator welfare.
Special Adviser Giwa, represented by Permanent Secretary Olawale Musa, emphasised that the engagement was aimed not only at identifying challenges but developing forward-looking solutions built on discipline, innovation, and partnership.
NAN reports that attendees included representatives of NDLEA, UBA, the National Association of Road Transport Owners, the Nigerian Railway Corporation, and various truckers’ associations. CNG-powered trucks were also inspected at the event.