9/18/2026
FETHI CMD Affirms Relevance of Drivers to System Improvement
In line with its commitment to staff welfare and professional development, the Management of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti (FETHI), in partnership with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), has organized a two-day training programme for the hospital's professional drivers.
The programme, themed "Safe Driving, Patient Safety," took place between September 15 to 16, 2026, at the hospital's Main Conference Hall.
This initiative aimed to enhance drivers' knowledge and skills, promote responsible driving practices, and emphasize the importance of road safety, especially in transporting patients needing urgent medical attention.
During the opening ceremony, attended by Management and senior staff, the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Kolawole Ogundipe, stressed the need for continuous training for staff whose roles directly impact patient safety.
He stated that professional competence must be reinforced through learning and practical development, asserting that equipping drivers with essential knowledge is crucial for reducing preventable road accidents and ensuring safe transportation for patients, staff, and other road users.
FRSC Sector Commander C.C. Sanya Adeoye praised the Management for its proactive approach to driver training, noting that regular capacity building is vital to prevent avoidable accidents and enhance safety for both drivers and patients.
He highlighted that learning is ongoing, and even experienced professionals need periodic training to update their knowledge and improve effectiveness.
Also addressing attendees, the Director of Administration, Mrs. Foluso Adelegan, congratulated the drivers on their participation, encouraging them to engage earnestly with the training, as the knowledge gained would aid their personal development and job performance.
The first lecture, "A Review of Public Service Rules," was presented by Mrs. Tolulope Bamigboye.
Subsequent sessions featured FRSC officials discussing various aspects of road and driver safety, including the Nigeria Highway Code, Driving Safety Tips, Emergency Driving for Ambulance Drivers, Hazard Perception, Road Rage Management, Defensive Driving Techniques, and Driver Behaviour.
The practical sessions allowed participants to refresh their knowledge of safe driving practices and understand their responsibilities in transporting patients and hospital community members.
At the closing ceremony, FRSC Assistant Corps Commander Ruth Akano expressed gratitude to FETHI Management for investing in driver development.
She revealed that the drivers underwent an assessment and were deemed fit to continue their roles, presenting certificates to the 36 drivers who completed the training.
One of the drivers, Mr. Ayeni Adebayo John, expressed gratitude for the programme, noting he hadn't participated in similar training since 2011, calling it a significant advancement.
Another driver, Mr. Akinyosola Raphael, commended the CMD for positive changes in the hospital since his appointment in March 2026, expressing confidence in his colleagues' ability to apply their new knowledge.
In response, the CMD acknowledged the FRSC officials for facilitating the valuable training programme.
He urged drivers to prioritize safety, emphasizing their responsibilities extend beyond reaching a destination to ensuring the safety of themselves, passengers, and other road users.
He stated, "You are all valid," assuring them that Management recognizes their contributions and will continue to support their welfare as they demonstrate commitment and value in their duties.
He noted that as staff contribute to the hospital's growth, Management would be motivated to enhance their welfare.
Prof. Ogundipe promised all participants the payment of a sum of ten thousand naira each and also assured them that their annual non-accident bonus would be periodically reviewed and efforts would be made for timely disbursement. He announced that Management would recognize drivers who consistently demonstrate good conduct and professionalism.
The presentation of certificates to successful participants was met with enthusiastic applause from staff and guests.
In his vote of thanks, Chief Vehicle Maintenance Officer, Alhaji Otu Sumaila, thanked Management for organizing the training, noting it enhanced drivers' knowledge and boosted morale.
He assured Management of the drivers' commitment to improved performance and expressed optimism for continued support as the hospital advances its development plans.
Also present were Deputy CMAC (Training) Dr. Kolawole T.F., Deputy Director of Administration, Mr. Abayomi Adeakin, Head of Human Resource, Mr. Abayomi Alake, Chief of Staff to the CMD, Dr. Kamal Alabi, and Deputy Director of Protocol and Head of the Information & Corporate Affairs Department, Mr. Isaac Anifowose, among other senior staff members.
Information & Corporate Affairs Department, FETHI.