Leading e-mobility platform, Bolt, has launched safety jackets for dispatch riders operating in Abuja, Nigeria’s federal capital territory. This was disclosed in a statement by the company received by Technext. According to the statement, the safety jackets were unveiled and distributed during a safety workshop for couriers organised by the company.

The company said the safety jackets are specifically designed for couriers operating within the FCT. The jackets, which are high visibility, aim to increase their visibility on the roads, especially during low-light conditions. This, the company believes, would reduce the risk of accidents while promoting public safety.

Speaking about the development, Acting Head of Regulatory & Policy in Africa, Weyinmi Aghadiuno, said Bolt understands the rapid growth currently being witnessed in the delivery sector and is playing its part in guaranteeing safety in the space.

“At Bolt, safety is at the heart of our operations. We understand the rapid growth of the delivery sector and the responsibility it brings to ensure that every rider is well-equipped to operate safely. Today’s workshop reflects our joint commitment to this goal. We acknowledge the unique challenges faced by delivery riders across the FCT and Nigeria, and we believe that through collective efforts, we can mitigate risks and promote safer practices,” she said.

More on Bolt’s safety workshop

As part of its commitment to ensuring the safety of its partners, Bolt hosts periodic safety workshops. The recent instalment, targeted at dispatch riders, was put together in conjunction with the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS). The event emphasized rider safety and responsible driving practices within the Federal Capital Territory.

Themed “Empowering Riders for Safe Delivery Journeys“, the event brought together Bolt courier partners, experts from the industry, and key government figures and regulators, including representatives from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Commissioner of Police, FCT Road Safety Council, Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) and the members of National Union of Dispatch Riders of Nigeria.

The workshop featured several safety-focused sessions specifically designed for couriers. These sessions covered a range of topics, including thorough training on traffic laws, defensive driving strategies, and best practices for safe and responsible delivery operations. Additionally, an open forum allowed couriers to voice their concerns, provide feedback, and offer suggestions on safety and working conditions, creating a collaborative environment for improvement.

Speaking about the import of the workshop, Mandate Secretary, Transportation, FCT, Barr. Chinedu Elechi commended the company, stating that all parties involved are demonstrating that safety is not just for the individual.

“I would like to commend Bolt Nigeria for their unwavering commitment to road traffic safety and for their proactive approach in partnering with the FCT to drive these crucial initiatives. Together, we are demonstrating that safety is not an individual responsibility but a shared priority for all stakeholders involved,” he said.

He also assured the app company and other stakeholders that the FCT Administration will continue to introduce and implement policies that support safer road practices and better working conditions for delivery riders and other road users.

This collaborative initiative between Bolt and DRTS underscores a shared commitment to enhancing road safety for all users, including delivery couriers who play a crucial role in the city’s logistics and transportation network.

See also: Togo suspends ride-hailing app, Yango over security concerns

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