'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has commenced a nationwide special operation to clamp down on the illegal use of number plates and fake vehicle registration numbers.
The operation, which began on Monday, February 3, 2025, targets private, commercial, government, and diplomatic vehicles with fraudulent or unauthorized plate numbers. The initiative is part of the FRSC’s broader efforts to enhance national security and improve the accuracy of the National Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) database.
The operation is being led by Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM) Hyginus Omeje, the FRSC’s Head of Operations, and ACM Godwin Omiko, the Head of Motor Vehicle Administration. Speaking to the press at the launch of the operation, ACM Omeje emphasized that the clampdown is a critical step in addressing the growing issue of fake vehicle registrations and illegal plate numbers, which pose significant risks to national security and road safety.
ACM Omeje explained that the operation is part of the FRSC’s mandate to ensure that all vehicles on Nigerian roads are properly registered and identifiable. “This nationwide clampdown is aimed at enhancing the National Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) database and facilitating security across the nation,” he said. “The use of fake number plates and unauthorized vehicle registrations undermines our efforts to maintain accurate records and compromises national security.”
The operation will involve rigorous checks on vehicles across the country, with a focus on identifying and impounding vehicles with fake or illegal plate numbers. Offenders will face penalties in accordance with the law, including fines and possible prosecution. The FRSC has also called on members of the public to cooperate with its officers during the operation and to report any suspicious activities related to vehicle registration.
The special operation is not limited to any specific category of vehicles. It targets private, commercial, government, and even diplomatic vehicles found to be using fake or unauthorized number plates. This inclusive approach underscores the FRSC’s commitment to ensuring that no vehicle is above the law.
ACM Godwin Omiko, the Head of Motor Vehicle Administration, highlighted the importance of the operation in curbing criminal activities linked to fake vehicle registrations. “Illegal number plates are often used by criminals to evade detection and carry out unlawful activities,” he said. “By clamping down on these illegal practices, we are not only improving road safety but also contributing to national security.”
The FRSC has urged members of the public to support the operation by ensuring that their vehicles are properly registered and that they use only authorized number plates. The Corps has also advised vehicle owners to verify the authenticity of their registration documents and report any discrepancies to the relevant authorities.
In addition to enforcement, the FRSC plans to intensify public awareness campaigns to educate Nigerians on the dangers of using fake number plates and the importance of proper vehicle registration. The Corps has also called on state governments and other stakeholders to collaborate in addressing the issue.
The nationwide clampdown on illegal plate numbers and fake vehicle registrations is a significant step in the FRSC’s ongoing efforts to improve road safety and national security. By ensuring that all vehicles are properly registered and identifiable, the Corps aims to create a safer environment for all road users and strengthen the integrity of Nigeria’s vehicle identification system.
As the operation progresses, the FRSC has assured the public of its commitment to transparency and professionalism. The Corps has also pledged to provide regular updates on the progress of the operation and the outcomes achieved.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is Nigeria’s lead agency responsible for road safety administration and management. Established in 1988, the FRSC is committed to creating a safer motoring environment through enforcement of traffic regulations, public education, and prompt response to road accidents.
