The pioneer Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Dr. Olu Agunloye has commended the proactive advocacy of the current Corps Marshal, Mr. Shehu Mohammed, for championing stronger collaboration with state governments to tackle road accidents.
In a strategic move, Mr. Mohammed recently engaged Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to explore ways of improving road safety measures. This initiative underscores the FRSC’s renewed focus on building partnerships to curb the alarming rate of road traffic accidents across Nigeria.
Ondo State holds a symbolic place in FRSC’s history as the first state to support its establishment during its formative years in 1989/90 under the leadership of Commodore Bode George, then Military Governor.
Dr. Agunloye praised the Corps Marshal’s efforts, stressing that road safety management requires a multidimensional and collaborative approach. He urged other states to emulate Ondo’s example by reviving support for the FRSC under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He cited the previous contributions of states like Borno, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, and Lagos as models for renewed engagement.
“Road safety is a collective responsibility,” Agunloye stated. “We need active public-private partnerships and citizen participation to sustain progress. Building on successful programs like the National Drivers’ Licence and Vehicle Licence Schemes will help save more lives.”
He further emphasized that enhanced state collaborations could spur innovations and significantly reduce road fatalities nationwide. “Safer roads are essential because only the living can celebrate,” he added.
The call for stronger partnerships builds on a legacy of cooperation, with Ondo State having previously donated land for FRSC facilities and supported joint patrols and safety campaigns.
Observers believe Governor Aiyedatiwa’s track record as a road safety advocate, along with the involvement of Attorney General Barrister Kayode Ajulo, SAN, positions the state as a reliable ally in the FRSC’s renewed efforts.
The FRSC’s push for closer partnerships signals a major step toward addressing Nigeria’s road safety challenges and ensuring safer highways for all road users.