We work actively to prevent road accidents, injuries – FRSC
By Abujah Rachel
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has outlined comprehensive strategies to address the alarming surge in brain and spinal cord injuries resulting from road traffic accidents in Nigeria.
Corps Marshal Dauda Ali Biu, represented by Mr Davidson Okuobeya, Chief of Medical Operations, said this during the National Brain and Injury Conference held in Abuja.
He highlighted the urgency of raising public awareness and implementing emergency rescue measures to mitigate life-threatening injuries caused by road accidents.
The conference, organised by the Brain & Spine Foundation Africa (BSFA), emphasised the critical need to tackle this issue in the country.
According to him, records indicate that brain and spinal injuries rank among the most severe consequences of road traffic crashes.
“The FRSC, as the primary agency overseeing road traffic administration and safety management, has implemented various measures to fulfill its mission of eradicating road traffic accidents and fostering a secure motoring environment.
“Among these measures are the establishment of 60 Zebra Points under Emergency Ambulance Services, 30 Road Traffic Crash Clinics/Help Areas, and 25 Medical Centres across the nation.
“The FRSC is also committed to sustained enforcement against traffic offenders, alongside advocacy campaigns in religious institutions and medical outreaches in motor parks”.
He said FRSC partnered with the Federal Ministry of Health through the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) to pioneer the first National Ambulance Services in Nigeria.
He said a toll-free call centre (122) has been established to respond promptly to all emergency situations.
Corps Marshal Biu stressed the importance of a multi-sectoral approach to combat brain and spinal injuries, welcoming collaboration with organisations like the Brain & Spine Foundation Africa to raise awareness about the devastating implications of these injuries.
Dr Douglas Emeka Okor, a Consultant Neurosurgeon, urgently called on the Federal and State Governments to address the state of the country’s roads.
He advocated for a culturally relevant strategy to enhance the training and attitudes of Nigerian drivers, proposing that every FRSC unit should include at least two paramedics.
Ms. Chika Okwuolisa, founder of BSFA, highlighted the organisation’s mission to create public awareness, educate, support, and advocate for those affected by brain and spinal conditions in sub-Saharan African countries.
Okwuolisa called for funds to amplify public awareness and education, stressing the importance of initiating conversations and collaboration among stakeholders, particularly in the road and safety sectors.
The conference serves as a powerful platform to draw attention to these challenges, with hopes that collaborative efforts lead to positive changes and act as a catalyst for transformative action in the country. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Idris Abdulrahman
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