The trio of inDrive, a ride-hailing company, the Nigeria Police and the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation last week in Lagos, South-West Nigeria mulled a partnership, which is aimed at improving the safety of both riders and drivers in the state.
The partnership initiative comes after a safety education event organized by inDrive.
Speaking at the event, the Director of Transport Operations, Lagos Ministry of Transportation, Engr. Olasunkanmi Ojowuro emphasised that all relevant stakeholders should intensify yearly efforts to train commuters and drivers, focusing on safety measures and road signage.
While calling on law enforcement agencies to step up to ensure adequate enforcement of violators of traffic laws in the State, he stated that the Lagos State Government was playing its part in providing the much-needed infrastructure to enhance road safety and providing manpower support.
“The most important thing is to urge all road users to adhere strictly to traffic and safety laws as enshrined in the state’s guiding principles. This would help reduce the number of accidents leading to deaths and injuries and ensure the efficient management of traffic flows,” he added.
Here are the key takeaways:
- Increased Education: All parties agreed on the importance of yearly safety training for drivers and riders. This training will focus on safe driving practices and understanding road signs.
- Enforcement Measures: The Lagos Ministry of Transportation will strengthen enforcement of traffic laws to deter violations. They’re also committed to improving road infrastructure and providing manpower support.
- inDrive Safety Features: inDrive is enhancing its existing Safety Center with new features. These features include:
- Adding more emergency contacts
- Easier sharing of ride details with authorities
- Improved in-app communication between riders and drivers
- inDrive Safety Pact: This comprehensive safety program includes:
- Driver verification and onboarding processes
- Real-time ride sharing with trusted contacts
- Access to ratings, reviews, and ride details to empower informed decisions
Meanwhile, inDrive representative Timothy Oladimeji also highlighted some practical safety tips for riders:
- Keep your belongings with you at all times.
- Only enter vehicles that match the description in the inDrive app.
- Report any incidents, big or small, through the inDrive app’s feedback or support features.
- Provide feedback about your driver after every ride.
He emphasized inDrive’s commitment to working with law enforcement to proactively collaborate to identify and address criminal activity during rides and assisting law enforcement with investigations by providing driver details when necessary.