By Adeyemi Adekunle
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has recorded a significant reduction in road traffic crashes (RTCs) across Nigeria, despite high traffic volumes on critical corridors during the holiday season. Corps Marshal Malam Shehu Mohammed disclosed this on Tuesday while personally controlling traffic at the Asaba-Onitsha Niger Bridge, alongside senior FRSC officers.
Speaking with journalists, Mohammed attributed the decline in crashes to the agency’s proactive measures under the 2024 Operation Zero Tolerance Special Patrol Target. These measures include increased patrols, enhanced traffic control, and nationwide public awareness campaigns aimed at ensuring safer roads and a hitch-free festive season.
“Our primary goal is to achieve a season without road traffic deaths or injuries. So far, we’ve recorded low traffic crashes nationwide, even with the high volume of vehicles on the roads,” Mohammed said.
However, he highlighted a fatal accident on the Akure-Ibadan highway that claimed three lives, emphasizing the dangers of night travel. “Visibility at night is poor, making rescue operations difficult. Motorists must exercise caution and avoid traveling at night,” he advised.
Monitoring traffic at the Niger Bridge, a critical gateway between Delta and Anambra states, Mohammed reported smooth vehicular movement. He praised FRSC personnel for their dedication to ensuring free-flowing traffic, even during peak travel hours.
“Our strategy to increase patrol officers on critical corridors is yielding positive results. From Akure to here, traffic is moving smoothly. I’m impressed with the commitment of our men, many of whom are on duty at night to ensure motorists’ safety,” he stated.
The FRSC’s efforts are being felt across the country, with reports of smooth traffic flow from various regions. Mohammed commended officers for their hard work and assured them of the Corps’ continued commitment to their welfare.
In addition to enforcing road safety measures, Mohammed urged motorists to cooperate with traffic officers and adhere to regulations. He reassured travelers of the FRSC’s unwavering dedication to their safety throughout the holiday season.
“Our personnel will remain on the roads until January 15, 2025, to ensure that every motorist, whether traveling from the North to the South or East to West, reaches their destination safely and on time,” Mohammed promised.
During his visit to the Asaba interchange, the Corps Marshal, alongside the Anambra State Sector Commander Joyce Alexander and Delta State Sector Commander Fredrick Ogidan, actively controlled traffic for over three hours, ensuring smooth movement for holiday travelers.
The FRSC’s proactive measures and visible presence on major highways have earned widespread praise, as Nigerians navigate one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. With these efforts, the Corps remains committed to its mission of saving lives and ensuring road safety nationwide.
