By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Federal Government has called on the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and all relevant stakeholders to recommit to implementing the Nigeria Road Safety Strategy to address persistent road safety challenges.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima made the call on Wednesday at the 8th Annual Lecture Series of the FRSC, held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He noted that recent statistics revealing a high number of road deaths were alarming, indicating that Nigeria still faced significant road safety issues.

“I commend the leadership of the FRSC for the vigour and innovation with which you have pursued this cause.

“But let me add a note of caution: we do not yet have the luxury to celebrate. Much work still lies ahead.”

He emphasised that achieving safer roads required both indigenous solutions and global partnerships, urging collaboration among government, private sector, and civil society organisations.

Shettima stressed that road safety was a shared responsibility and urged stakeholders across all sectors to fully engage in implementing the National Road Safety Strategy.

“We must recommit ourselves to this strategy. Only through shared responsibility can we guarantee sustainable outcomes,” he stated.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s vision of making the road safety strategy a reality.

He noted that platforms like the Annual Lecture Series provide opportunities for reflection, accountability, and the adoption of global best practices.

“The FRSC has produced refined minds whose insights enrich our national quest for safer roads,” he said, praising the corps for its alignment with international standards and for remaining innovative.

The Vice-President also highlighted the government’s ongoing investment in infrastructure, consistent road maintenance, and expansion of highway networks as key components of the broader strategy to improve safety.

Earlier, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, said the Annual Lecture Series had evolved into a vital platform for dialogue on road safety and transport management.

Akume noted that road safety is not just a transport issue but a national development priority, as it directly impacted social well-being and public health.

He commended the FRSC’s efforts but acknowledged that more needed to be done to meet growing urbanisation and mobility demands.

“The Federal Government is committed to supporting the FRSC through capacity building and enhanced inter-agency coordination,” Akume said, adding that the responsibility for safer roads lies with every Nigerian. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru