The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has reported that a total of 3,767 lives were lost in 7,011 road crashes across Nigeria between January and September 2024. The alarming statistics were disclosed by the FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, during the launch of the 2024 Road Traffic Crash Victims Remembrance Week held at St. John’s Evangelist Cathedral Church in Bauchi on Sunday.
Represented by the Bauchi State Sector Commander, Istifanus Ibrahim, the Corps Marshal highlighted the widespread impact of road accidents, noting that an additional 22,373 individuals sustained various degrees of injuries in road crashes during the same period. The Corps Marshal attributed the high number of casualties partly to Nigeria’s large population, describing the country as the most affected by road traffic accidents in sub-Saharan Africa.
The 2024 World Road Traffic Crash Victims Remembrance Week is themed “That Day,” aimed at reflecting on the pivotal moments when road traffic collisions altered or ended lives. “This remembrance week provides a solemn opportunity to recall both those who have tragically lost their lives and the survivors who are still battling their injuries,” Mohammed stated.
Outlining the objectives of this year’s event, Mohammed emphasized the need to recognize the critical work of emergency responders, advocate for stronger legal consequences for road traffic offences, and push for better support systems for victims and their families. “The day is also aimed at promoting evidence-based strategies to prevent future road traffic deaths and injuries,” he added.
As part of the commemorative activities, the FRSC announced that similar remembrance events would be held in various religious settings, including a dedicated session at a Jumaat Mosque on Friday. The Corps Marshal underscored the importance of leveraging religious platforms to spread the road safety message, aiming to reach a broader audience and appeal to the conscience of road users.
Mohammed also called on government authorities at all levels to adopt the Safe System Approach, which emphasizes improved vehicle safety, road infrastructure, and effective enforcement measures. “We urge all road users—drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike—to recognise that road traffic crashes often claim the lives of passengers more than drivers. It is crucial to remember that road safety is a collective responsibility,” he stated.
During the event, Rev. Raphael Agbada, who delivered the sermon at the church service, lauded the FRSC for bringing the road safety message to the congregation. He pledged to extend the enlightenment campaign beyond the church community, aiming to raise awareness about road safety across the state.
“We will do all we can to join you in ensuring safety on our roads,” Rev. Agbada assured, emphasizing the church’s commitment to supporting the FRSC’s mission.
The remembrance week is part of a global initiative to honour the victims of road traffic crashes as well as to raise awareness about the need for improved road safety measures. The FRSC’s call to action is expected to mobilize stakeholders and the general public in adopting safer road practices to reduce the incidence of traffic accidents in the country.
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