The Oyo State government, in collaboration with the Oyo State sector of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), has organised a one-day training programme for drilling rig drivers from various companies operating in the state.
During the workshop’s opening, held at the Grand Serene Hotel, Iyaganku at the weekend, the Commissioner for Environment, in the state, AbdulMojeed Mogbonjubola, acknowledged the contributions of the drilling rig association in supporting the government’s efforts to provide potable water to citizens.
Represented by Executive Officer of Royal Gem, Mr. Yinka Ajayi, a consultant to the state government, the Commissioner urged rig owners to adhere to safety standards in their daily operations.
In her presentation on safety measures and best practices for driving rigs, Mrs. Rosemary Alo, the Oyo State Sector Commander of the FRSC, pointed out that many drilling rig drivers in the state were not following standard operating procedures.
She highlighted that all rig drivers were operating with Class D licenses, which contravenes road safety regulations.
Mrs. Alo clarified that while drilling rigs violating highway rules would not be immediately stopped from their operations, such incidents would be reported to the leadership of the association for appropriate sanctions.
At the meeting, rig drivers were assisted in processing a five-year Class H license at an unspecified amount of money which includes medical tests.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Borehole Drillers Association in Oyo State, Engr. Adeyinka Kolawole, encouraged members to cooperate and comply with the FRSC’s directives to ensure the safety of their lives and livelihoods.
