Road Safety Week: FRSC Reaffirms Commitment to Safer, Sustainable Transportation
By Ibironke Ariyo
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has restated its dedication to building safer roads in Nigeria through data-driven strategies, stakeholder collaboration, and the promotion of sustainable transport systems.
This assurance was given during a joint press briefing in Abuja to mark the 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week. The theme of the 2025 observance is “Make Walking Safe, Make Cycling Safe,” emphasizing the need to prioritise non-motorised transport options in national road safety policies.
Speaking on behalf of the Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, the Deputy Corps Marshal in charge of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Mr. Clement Oladele, highlighted FRSC’s use of digital tools to enhance enforcement and accident prevention.
According to Oladele, the Corps is leveraging its Road Traffic Crash Database Management System (RTCDMS) to identify high-risk areas and deploy patrol units effectively for real-time surveillance and rescue operations.
He added that the FRSC remains committed to implementing the Second Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021–2030), with a strong focus on inclusive road policies that prioritise pedestrians and cyclists.
Mohammed also reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the Marrakech Declaration, which calls for transport systems that prioritise human life over speed and convenience.
“Transport must be designed with safety, accessibility, and inclusion at its core. This campaign is not FRSC’s alone. It is a shared duty among government, civil society, the media, and all road users,” he said.
The Corps Marshal urged stakeholders to act swiftly and collectively to eliminate preventable road crashes and fatalities.
In his address, Prof. Yusuf John-Suberu, a United Nations envoy and representative of civil society organisations, emphasised the need to protect vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and children.
He noted that infrastructure planning in many countries, including Nigeria, has historically favoured vehicles, often at the expense of people’s safety.
“Roads should serve all users. We urge policymakers to design roads that are inclusive, featuring proper signage, walkways, and pedestrian-friendly bridges,” he said.
John-Suberu called for the removal of hawkers from pedestrian bridges and recommended designs that accommodate persons with disabilities.
He also pledged the commitment of civil society groups to support FRSC through awareness campaigns and policy advocacy aimed at reducing road crashes.
“We stand ready to work hand-in-hand with FRSC to implement the Marrakech Declaration and create safer roads for everyone,” he added.
Commending FRSC’s leadership, John-Suberu appealed to the Federal Government to provide increased funding for the Corps and called on international partners to offer technical and financial support for road safety programs in Nigeria and across Africa.
“Road safety must become a national priority. With the right investment and collaboration, we can save lives and secure a safer future for all road users,” he said.
