The Federal Road Safety Corps has urged Nigerians to embrace road safety as a shared responsibility, stressing that every journey begins and ends on the road, making the protection of lives and property a collective duty. The Corps said increasing security concerns on highways require greater public vigilance, stronger inter-agency collaboration and responsible conduct by all road users.
Speaking on measures to improve safety on the nation's highways, the Corps explained that not every case of a missing traveller should immediately be assumed to be a kidnapping. According to the FRSC, many travellers leave home without informing relatives of their destinations, while others become unreachable after being involved in road crashes or unexpected delays, creating panic and false kidnapping reports.
The agency disclosed that its emergency response teams and ambulances are strategically positioned along major highways to ensure prompt rescue operations whenever crashes occur. It noted that reducing response time is critical to saving lives, adding that rescue clinics and trained first responders across major road corridors complement the Corps' emergency services.
On the growing threat of kidnapping along highways, the FRSC said although it is not the lead agency for combating such crimes, it works closely with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies by sharing intelligence on suspicious activities. The Corps said information supplied by its personnel has, on several occasions, assisted security operatives in tracking vehicles and responding swiftly to security threats.
The Corps advised travellers to avoid unnecessary night journeys, use only registered motor parks and ensure their names and next-of-kin details are accurately captured on passenger manifests. It also encouraged passengers to share vehicle registration numbers, destinations and travel details with trusted family members before embarking on any trip to aid emergency response when necessary.
The FRSC further charged drivers to remain disciplined behind the wheel by avoiding speeding, drunk driving and unnecessary distractions. It urged motorists to practise defensive driving, remain alert to unusual situations on the road and exercise caution whenever traffic patterns appear abnormal, noting that concentration and sound judgment remain the driver's greatest safety tools.
The agency also stressed that passengers have a responsibility to contribute to road safety by avoiding actions capable of distracting drivers. It warned against arguments, confrontations and other disruptive behaviour inside vehicles, explaining that even brief distractions could result in fatal crashes.
The Corps identified technology as a critical component of modern road safety and security management, advocating increased deployment of surveillance cameras, vehicle tracking systems and drones across major highways. It also commended the collaboration among security agencies, describing intelligence sharing and joint operations as vital to reducing crime and improving emergency response on Nigeria's roads.
Reaffirming its commitment to public enlightenment and strict enforcement of traffic regulations through its mobile court system, the FRSC urged Nigerians to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. "Safety is everybody's business," the Corps said, adding that sustained public cooperation, responsible driving and effective collaboration among stakeholders would go a long way in creating safer roads and protecting lives nationwide.
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