The Director-General of NYSC, Maj.-Gen. Shuaibu Ibrahim, has advised drivers in the scheme to be conscious of their health and always keep their vehicles in good condition.
A statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, said that Ibrahim gave the admonition on Thursday in Abuja at a workshop organized for the drivers.
The workshop had the theme, “The Driver’s Health Status: A Panacea for Accident Management and Control”.
Ibrahim said that the consciousness of the drivers’ health and condition of vehicles were in order to ensure their safety and that of other road users.
He said the physical and mental health of all drivers were very critical to their overall performance.
He said a healthy driver would drive well due to his alertness and ability to process information for effective driving.
He also said that to avoid fatal road accidents, all drivers must take their health seriously and adopt healthy lifestyles.
According to him, road accidents have recently claimed many lives following some causative factors such as stress, sleep deprivation, fatigue, drunkenness, illness, bad eyesight, and drug abuse, among others.
The Director-General said as management was committed to the enhancement of the welfare and efficiency of staff, it 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.”
“Do not joke with your health because you are very important to us. Be very honest in your dealings to prevent cases of misconduct from any of you. I am happy that NYSC Staff is very wonderful people,” he added.
Ibrahim advised participants, drawn from all NYSC formations across the country, to adhere to approved speed limits.
“Carry out necessary checks on your vehicles before driving, avoid alcoholic drinks and night journeys among other risks,” he said.
The Director, General Services, Emannuel Attah, said the promotion of healthy living at the workplace required a holistic approach involving both private and official lifestyles.
He urged the participants to use the benefits of the workshop to improve their personal health, lifestyles, and attitude to work.
Resource persons at the workshop included Assistant Corps Commander Labaran Mustafa from the FRSC and Odurukwe Olivia from Hillshore Clinic Limited.