75% of Road Crashes Caused by Human Error – Safety Commission DG

The Lagos State Government has launched a fresh drive to strengthen road safety by training Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) drivers, against the backdrop of alarming statistics showing that more than 75 percent of road crashes are caused by human error.

At the programme themed “The Mind Behind the Wheel”, organised by the Lagos State Safety Commission (LSC) in partnership with Lagos Bus Service Limited (LBSL), drivers were taken through modules designed to sharpen reflexes, improve emergency response, and instil a safety-first mindset.

Declaring the training open at LBSL headquarters in Oshodi, the Director-General of LSC, Lanre Mojola, said human behaviour remains the single biggest threat to road safety, despite advances in vehicle technology and infrastructure.

“Statistics consistently show that over 75 percent of road accidents are caused by human error,” Mojola noted.

“This is why attitude change, continuous training, and awareness are critical. Every BRT driver must see this as an opportunity not just to protect themselves but the millions of Lagosians who depend on them daily,” he added.

Mojola added that more than five million people globally have benefitted from similar safety trainings, with feedback showing measurable reductions in crashes.

The initiative, he said, aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES-Plus agenda, particularly its focus on safer mobility and efficient traffic management.

Reinforcing the message, the Managing Director/CEO of LBSL, Mr. Idowu Oguntona, described the initiative as proof of government’s commitment to protecting lives in a city where millions rely on public transport daily.

He disclosed that the BRT system has so far moved over 60 million passengers across Lagos, with an impressive safety record.

“Transportation is the lifeblood of a megacity like Lagos,” Oguntona said, adding that “Our drivers carry an enormous responsibility, and this training ensures they have the discipline and vigilance needed to deliver safe journeys.”

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), represented by Mr. Poju Fowokan, also commended the programme, urging drivers to take personal responsibility for their actions behind the wheel.

The sessions, anchored by MTC Consult, featured expert-led modules on human psychology in driving, stress management, first-aid response, and modern safety strategies, with scenario-based exercises designed to prepare drivers for real-world traffic challenges.

Several participants expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for investing in their professional development, pledging to apply their new skills to make Lagos roads safer.