'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar III, has reiterated his support for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and called for a diversified transportation system to curb road crashes.
According to a statement signed on February 14th, 2025 by the Corp's spokesperson, Oluwasegun Ogungbemide, the Sultan made this call on Thursday, February 13, 2025, while receiving the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, at his palace in Sokoto during a courtesy visit.
The Sultan commended the FRSC for its relentless efforts in raising public awareness on road safety and enforcing traffic regulations to prevent road crashes. He described the increasing cases of traffic violations, such as overloading, mix-loading, and excessive speeding, as alarming and stressed the need for all stakeholders to work together to address the indiscipline that leads to loss of lives and property.
He particularly emphasized the dangers posed by tanker crashes and the unsafe practice of fuel scooping at accident scenes, calling for increased public enlightenment on the associated risks.
In advocating for transportation diversification, the Sultan noted that Nigeria’s heavy reliance on road transport contributes significantly to road accidents. He stressed the need for a functional railway system to reduce pressure on roads and prevent unnecessary crashes. According to him, the transportation of petroleum products and other goods through railway lines would significantly reduce tanker-related accidents and improve road safety.
Congratulating the Corps Marshal on his appointment, the Sultan described his leadership as proactive, commending his efforts in improving road safety since assuming office. He urged FRSC personnel to remain diligent, disciplined, and committed to the task of reducing road crashes, aligning their efforts with the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety.
Reaffirming his membership in the Special Marshals, the Sultan encouraged members to remain dedicated to the FRSC’s vision, stating that he personally ensures his drivers adhere strictly to traffic rules. He called on all motorists to embrace personal discipline and accountability to enhance road safety.
In response, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed expressed gratitude to the Sultan and his council for their continued support to the FRSC. He stated that his visit to Sokoto was part of his nationwide familiarization tour, emphasizing the need for collaboration with key stakeholders to enhance road safety measures. He also aligned his vision with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting the administration’s commitment to road safety and infrastructure development.
Recognizing Sokoto State’s strategic role in agricultural production, the Corps Marshal stressed the importance of maintaining safe roads for the transportation of goods and people. He assured that the FRSC would continue to engage stakeholders to improve road safety awareness and enforcement efforts across the country.
The two-day familiarization visit includes further engagements with the Sokoto State Governor and other key stakeholders to discuss improved collaboration on road safety initiatives.
