Dangote Transport unveils novel real-time driver monitoring control room

Dangote Transport has taken another major step towards improving road safety with the launch of a state-of-the-art Driver Monitoring Control Room that allows drivers operating its trucks to be monitored in real time while on transit across Nigeria.

The innovative facility, located at the Dangote Transport operational base in Ibese, Ogun State, was showcased to newsmen.

This was during a guided tour of the transport operations centre, where officials highlighted the company’s commitment to leveraging technology and best practices to reduce road accidents and improve drivers’ behaviour.

Speaking during the facility tour, the Head of Operations, Dangote Transport, Ibese, David Idiege, described the Driver Monitoring Control Room as one of the latest additions to the company’s comprehensive safety architecture.

According to him, the facility enables transport control personnel to observe drivers while they are on the road, monitor compliance with safety standards and promptly intervene whenever risky behaviour is detected.

Idiege said: “We are constantly looking for innovative ways to strengthen safety across our transport operations. 

“The Driver Monitoring Control Room represents another significant milestone in our efforts to ensure that all journeys are conducted safely and responsibly.”

He explained that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing accidents, enhancing operational efficiency and safeguarding both the drivers and other road users.

He said: “Safety remains our highest priority. 

“We recognise the responsibility that comes with operating a large fleet of vehicles across the country. 

“That is why we continue to invest heavily in technology, systems and training that help us maintain the highest safety standards.”

Idiege disclosed that the company has, over the years, implemented several safety measures designed to improve driver performance and minimise risks on the road.

He listed these initiatives to include speed limiters, vehicle immobilisers, speed boosters control systems, facial recognition devices, journey management protocols, mandatory drug and alcohol testing, compulsory rest periods for drivers, periodic recertification, as well as regular training and retraining programmes.

He said: “Our approach is holistic. 

“Technology alone is not enough. 

“We combine technology with strict operational procedures, driver welfare programmes, competency assessments, recertification exercises and continuous capacity building to ensure that our drivers remain professional and safety-conscious at all times.” 

Idiege further explained that compulsory rest policies help combat fatigue, one of the leading causes of road accidents globally.

He added: “We do not encourage driver fatigue. 

“Every driver is required to comply with our journey management procedures and mandatory rest schedules. 

“We understand that alert and healthy drivers make safer decisions on the road.”

Also speaking during the tour, the Head of Transport Control, Ifeanyi Ezeala, who conducted journalists around the control facility, explained that the on-board camera system installed across thousands of Dangote trucks was facilitated by technology partner Nova Tracks.

According to Ezeala, the camera system enables real-time visibility into driver conduct and provides transportation managers with critical information needed to proactively address safety concerns.

He said: “The technology allows us to monitor driver activities while journeys are in progress. 

“The cameras provide live feeds and alerts, helping us detect behaviours that could compromise safety and enabling us to take immediate corrective action.”

Ezeala noted that the monitoring solution is not intended to police drivers but rather to support them and ensure they operate under safer conditions.