The House of Representatives is considering a bill that would require truck drivers across Nigeria to undergo mandatory drug tests every six months as part of efforts to reduce the rising number of tanker and trailer accidents on the country’s roads.

The proposed legislation was disclosed on Tuesday by the lawmaker representing Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency in Anambra State, Peter Uzokwe, who is sponsoring the bill.

Speaking during an interactive session with key stakeholders in the downstream petroleum sector, including the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Uzokwe said substance abuse among truck drivers is a major contributor to accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles.

He explained that the bill, which is scheduled for its second and third readings in the House, seeks to make routine drug screening compulsory for all truck drivers.

“It is in my bill, coming up for second and third reading, that all truck drivers should be tested for drugs at least once every six months,” he said.

Uzokwe argued that driver training alone cannot prevent accidents if drivers operate vehicles while under the influence of illicit substances.

“You can train a driver who is a drug addict. He may drive well, but once the substance takes control, he will no longer drive the way he was trained.

“You can see the trailer and tanker accidents we are having. These are things that can be prevented if drivers are in their right senses,” he added.

The proposed legislation forms part of broader efforts by lawmakers to improve road safety and reduce fatalities resulting from accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles across Nigeria.