As Nigerians usher in the year 2026, the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has issued a passionate appeal to motorists across the country to prioritize safety and strictly observe traffic regulations to ensure crash-free celebrations.
In a statement released Thursday in Abuja by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, the FRSC boss highlighted the inherent risks associated with festive periods. He noted that increased vehicular movement often coincides with dangerous driving behaviors that lead to avoidable tragedies.
Zero Tolerance for Recklessness
The Corps Marshal identified several “critical killers” on the road that tend to spike during the New Year festivities, including:
* Driver Fatigue: Long-distance travel without adequate rest.
* Speeding and Dangerous Overtaking: Attempts to “make up time” on busy highways.
* Drunk Driving: Operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs.
* Mechanical Failures: Operating vehicles that are not roadworthy.
“The celebration of a new beginning must not be marred by avoidable road traffic crashes,” Mohammed stated, emphasizing that the joy of the season should not be swapped for the mourning of loved ones.
Strategic Deployment
To manage the surge in traffic, the Corps Marshal reassured the public that FRSC personnel have been strategically positioned across major highways and corridors nationwide. These officers are tasked with:
* Traffic Management: Ensuring the free flow of vehicles at known bottlenecks.
* Strict Enforcement: Penalizing habitual offenders to deter reckless behavior.
* Emergency Response: Providing rapid assistance in the event of any road mishaps.
A Shared Responsibility
Mohammed reminded road users that while the FRSC is fully prepared for the season, the ultimate responsibility lies with the person behind the wheel. He urged travelers to plan their journeys ahead and cooperate fully with marshals on duty.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility,” he concluded, calling on all Nigerians to make safety-conscious choices to protect lives and property throughout the new year.
