'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - Vice President Kashim Shettima is set to inaugurate the National Road Safety Advisory Council (NARSAC) in a decisive move towards enhancing road safety in Nigeria. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Decade of Action on Road Safety 2021-2030, which aims for zero tolerance towards road traffic fatalities.
A statement by the Corp's spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide disclosed that the Vice President, who will chair the newly established council, underscored the urgent need for action to combat the increasing number of road accidents during a recent meeting with the management of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Shettima emphasized the critical role of technology and strict enforcement of traffic regulations to improve safety on Nigerian roads.
“Our country is facing significant challenges with road safety, and we need a comprehensive solution,” Shettima stated. He pointed out that the current state of Nigeria’s road safety ecosystem is insufficient, and stressed the need for collective efforts to address these challenges, drawing comparisons with successful international practices observed in countries like Dubai and the UK.
Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed echoed the Vice President’s sentiments, calling NARSAC a vital catalyst for achieving the goals outlined in the Nigeria Road Safety Strategy II, which aims to halve road traffic crashes by 2030. He highlighted that the council will play a crucial role in setting national road safety targets, coordinating efforts across different levels of government, and overseeing the implementation of strategic initiatives.
The council will consist of six governors representing Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, various federal ministers, the National Security Adviser, and the President of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), ensuring a comprehensive approach to road safety across the country.
With Nigeria grappling with rising road traffic incidents, the inauguration of NARSAC is seen as a pivotal step towards fostering a safer driving environment. The Vice President's directive reflects a commitment to enhancing road safety standards and reducing the alarming rates of traffic-related fatalities.
The council's inaugural session is expected to set the stage for a series of strategic initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration and promoting adherence to traffic regulations nationwide.
As Nigeria aims to meet the ambitious targets of the UN's Decade of Action, the establishment of NARSAC signifies a renewed commitment to protecting lives on the road and addressing the pressing challenges of traffic safety head-on.
