Naija Driver 2026: Nationwide Free Driving Challenge Targets Safer Roads

Nigeria is set to launch the 'Naija Driver 2026,' a nationwide free driving challenge aimed at significantly enhancing road safety across the country. The initiative, spearheaded by Notch Captains Limited under the frameworks of the Automobile & Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN), the sole representative of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) in Nigeria, and in collaboration with the Lagos State Drivers Institute (LASDRI), promises a comprehensive approach to driver education and public enlightenment.

The program is designed to be inclusive, welcoming licensed Nigerian residents between the ages of 18 and 65. Registration and a crucial safety screening will be offered free of charge starting September 1, 2026, via the initiative's digital learning portal. Participants will gain access to a wealth of digital study materials covering essential topics such as defensive driving techniques, road-use regulations, effective crash-site management, and the critical skills needed for emergency victim stabilization during the vital "Golden Seconds." Preventive vehicle maintenance will also be a key component of the educational phase.

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the initiative is designed to promote road safety through free driver education, testing and public enlightenment.

This extensive online learning phase will lead to a Unified National Computer-Based Test scheduled for October 2026. Candidates are expected to take this examination simultaneously across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Following this, the top three highest-scoring candidates from each state and the FCT will undergo a rigorous document verification and practical screening process in their respective locations during October. The ultimate state champions will then be invited to Lagos for the final, high-stakes live-action driving tests, slated to take place from November 7 to 10, 2026. This physical competition will put participants' vehicle-handling agility, chassis control, and emergency-braking precision to the test before a live and televised audience.

Organizers are also planning an Executive Road Safety Advocacy Gala Night to bring together government representatives and senior executives from major Nigerian conglomerates. This event aims to secure endorsements for a national highway safety advocacy pledge. Furthermore, a partnership with Skinetics Med Spa will introduce a "Glam n Drive" package, offering gifts and vouchers throughout the tournament. The initiative will also feature presentations from leading motor insurance institutions to deepen public understanding of vehicle insurance and retail risk underwriting, alongside official charity visits to hospitals as part of its social-impact program.

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the competition would adopt a decentralised verification system to strengthen identity checks and eliminate logistical challenges.