In furtherance of its campaign to educate Nigerians on the benefits of responsible drinking, Guinness Nigeria Plc in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Health has taken its “Drink Responsibly” message to the CMS Motor Park, Lagos Island, Lagos.
The programme harped on the importance of responsible drinking and the need for regular medical checkups among commercial drivers to ensure optimal safety and wellbeing. The event had in attendance representatives from the Lagos state Transport Authority (LASTMA) and the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation’s Directorate of Vehicles Inspection Services (MOT/DVIS) as well as Guinness Nigeria representatives.
Speaking on behalf of the Head, Sustainability and Responsibility, Mrs Nkiruka Ogboruche, Community Investment Manager, Guinness Nigeria Plc, noted that the objectives of the programme were in line with the company’s corporate philosophy. She added that sensitizing commercial vehicle drivers on wellness and road safety habits was a further affirmation of the company’s investments in the good of the society in which it operates.
“Guinness Nigeria is committed to responsible drinking and it is important for us that people enjoy our products responsibly, which is why we are partnering with the Lagos State Ministry of Health to bring this awareness to you. The information cards we handed over to you contain information on responsible ways of enjoying our products. We would like you to leave this place with an added knowledge and consciousness of safety and responsible drinking.” Ogboruche stated.
Addressing the audience, Head, Public Education and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, Mr. Adele Joan, commended Guinness Nigeria Plc for supporting the campaign and noted that road safety impacts directly on the advancement of every society.
He stated that Lagos State Transport Management Authority (LASTMA) as the leading state agency on road safety management in conjunction with Lagos State Ministry of Health are committed to ensuring that drivers know their health status and the need for them to drive safely on the road.
“There are many incidents that occur on our roads that could be very easily avoided by proper education and enlightenment and that is why we commend Guinness Nigeria for the constant collaboration with us to sensitize drivers on how to be safe on the roads. It is wrong to abuse alcohol and it is heartening to see an alcohol beverage manufacturer taking the initiative to inform people on the proper use and enjoyment of their products” Joan said.
On her part, Chief Nursing Officer, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Mrs. Oyinade O. Ajiboye, stated that the awareness program in partnership with Guinness Nigeria is aimed at contributing to healthy living by educating people on responsible drinking and the importance of knowing their health status.
“We want you to enjoy your life and at the same time prolong your life, so if you want to drive, make sure you don’t drink. If you would like a drink before driving, Guinness Nigeria has a range of non-alcoholic products that they produce for your enjoyment. We therefore appeal to motorist to key into this Health and Safety initiative for the common goal of ensuring that all are kept safe and secure” Mrs. Ajiboye stated.
In the same vein, The Representative of Lagos State Ministry of Transportation’s Directorate of Vehicles Inspection Service (MOT/DVIS),Engr. Adebayo Abel Olusoji also applauded the initiative and described Guinness Nigeria Plc as one of the few multinational companies that have continued to show its commitment to the socio-economic development of its host community.
The event provided an opportunity for commercial automobile drivers and other guests present to have access to free medical checkup which includes eye test and blood pressure check. Free malaria test and treatment was also administered on participants.