The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has called on Nigerians to embrace discipline, obey traffic regulations, and prioritize road safety, as the celebration of the 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week continues across the country.
Sector Commanders in Plateau and Akwa Ibom States issued separate statements during the sensitization campaigns on Wednesday, where they stressed the need for attitudinal change and shared responsibility among road users to curb the rising incidence of road crashes.
In Jos, the FRSC Sector Commander in Plateau, Mr. Olajide Mogaji, led a road walk to mark the global event and urged residents to support efforts to create safer motoring environments.
He highlighted key causes of road accidents, including speeding, dangerous overtaking, and overloading, and called on motorists to desist from such practices.
“We must all play our parts in making our roads safer. This includes obeying road signs and markings, using pedestrian facilities like overhead bridges and zebra crossings, and following instructions of traffic officers, FRSC officials, and police personnel,” Mogaji said.
While acknowledging the poor condition of some roads in the country, Mogaji stressed that bad roads should not be an excuse for reckless driving, adding that “safety on our roads is not negotiable.”
However, in Uyo, the FRSC Sector Commander in Akwa Ibom, Mr. Edward Odiete, also used the occasion to call for a shift in behaviour, particularly the promotion of safer, more sustainable transport options like walking and cycling.
He noted the relevance of this year’s theme: “Streets for Life: Make Walking Safe, Make Cycling Safe.”
According to Odiete, the theme aligns with global efforts to reduce road traffic crashes and contributes directly to the achievement of various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He cited alarming statistics from the World Health Organization, which show that road traffic injuries are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, especially among young people aged 5 to 29.
“More than one in every four road deaths globally occurs among pedestrians and cyclists. There is a pressing need to create walk paths and cycling lanes to ensure their safety,” Odiete stated.
He emphasised that the UN Global Road Safety Week provides a platform for governments, civil society, schools, businesses, and other stakeholders to promote concrete actions aimed at reducing traffic fatalities and injuries.
Activities in both states included road walks and outreach to motor parks to educate drivers and passengers on road safety best practices.
