ACU Drivers Empowered with Comprehensive Safety, Professionalism Training
Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, has taken a significant step toward enhancing road safety and professionalism by organising its first-ever comprehensive workshop for its drivers, bringing together key stakeholders to address critical issues ranging from defensive driving to health and vehicle maintenance.
Themed “Enhancing Road Safety, Ethical Policing and Professional Driving Skills,” the workshop held at the university campus underscored the institution’s commitment to excellence and the well-being of its community members.
Delivering the opening address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, described the workshop as timely, emphasising that drivers are professionals who deserve to be at the top of their duty, particularly when it comes to safety.
The Vice-Chancellor urged drivers to obey traffic rules and avoid over-speeding and drunk driving, stressing that safety begins with discipline. She also highlighted the importance of a strong vehicle maintenance culture, declaring that “human life must always be prioritised above speed or profit.”
She further charged drivers to demonstrate competence and courtesy in their duties, noting that they serve as ambassadors of her office and the university. Reaffirming the institution’s commitment to excellence, she stated that the university must model best practices and produce responsible graduates and staff while emphasising responsibility, discipline, and sound decision-making.
In his address, the Director, Works and Services, ACU, Engr. Oluwole Olaniyi, described the training as the first workshop organised for drivers in the university’s history, commending the Vice-Chancellor for the initiative. He urged participants to take advantage of the opportunity to improve their skills and professionalism.
Addressing participants, the Assistant Corps Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Oyo Town, ACC Sunday Adeyemi, admonished drivers to be safety-conscious and avoid anything that might cause obstruction to their journey. The FRSC officials cautioned drivers against speeding, reckless driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and distractions while driving.
The FRSC team emphasised that defensive driving is essential not only for saving lives but also for saving time and reducing financial losses. Drivers were encouraged to always scan the road ahead, remain aware of their surroundings, and strictly adhere to the basic rules and regulations of defensive driving to ensure safety for all road users.
Speaking on health and wellness, the Director of Health Services, Dr. Olumuyiwa Omotesho, underscored the need for stress management and personal well-being among drivers. He advised drivers to prioritise adequate rest, noting that fatigue can impair concentration and increase the risk of accidents, while also urging them to maintain good personal habits.
Emphasising nutrition, Dr. Omotesho encouraged drivers to eat regularly and include fruits in their diet to stay healthy and alert. He further reminded participants to adhere to speed limits at all times and engage in regular exercise to improve their physical and mental well-being, which in turn enhances their performance on the road.
The training also featured a session on vehicle maintenance and diagnostics, anchored by Engr. Daniel Joseph, who urged drivers to prioritise vehicle maintenance as a key component of safe driving. He stressed that drivers must pay attention to warning signs such as brake performance, tyre condition, overheating, and unusual sounds, noting that early detection of faults can prevent serious damage.
Drivers were encouraged to service their vehicles regularly, carry out routine checks on critical components like brakes before any journey, and consult competent mechanics for repairs. The importance of pre-trip inspection was highlighted, with experts noting that a few minutes spent checking a vehicle can prevent breakdowns, reduce costly repairs, and ultimately save lives.
At the conclusion of Day 1 of the workshop, participants echoed the need for all members of the university community, including those behind the wheel, to uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism in the line of duty.
