The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has expressed deep concern over the alarming spike in road accidents and fatalities across Nigeria, with 2,838 lives lost in just the first half of 2025.
Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, speaking at the 2025 Half-Year Strategy Session in Abuja, disclosed that 5,281 crashes were recorded between January and June, involving 39,793 individuals. While 17,818 were rescued, the fatality figures mark a 2.2 percent rise compared to the same period in 2024.
“This period presented a tough challenge. The number of road crashes increased by 3.9 percent, while those involved rose by 8.9 percent,” he stated.
Despite the grim statistics, Mohammed emphasized that the corps is not backing down. He pointed to a 16 percent rise in arrests and a 14.9 percent increase in booked offences, noting that over 290,000 traffic offenders were apprehended during the six-month span.
“The surge in arrests is not a sign of weakness but of vigilance,” he said, adding that the FRSC is adapting to the growing demands of road safety enforcement.
Over 30 million passengers reportedly travelled in 2.3 million vehicles during this period, putting immense pressure on the road network. Anambra and Kano States alone accounted for over 6.5 million passengers, representing 22 percent of total movement nationwide.
In response to these challenges, the FRSC is pursuing legislative and technological reforms. A Bill to amend the FRSC Establishment Act was passed by the House of Representatives in July, aimed at enhancing traffic control, staff welfare, and infrastructure protection.
The corps has also introduced new digital tools like the National Crash Reporting System and the FRSC Mobile App, designed to streamline emergency responses and improve public engagement.
Mohammed revealed plans to launch a dedicated Health Management Office to address lingering healthcare concerns among personnel. The initiative promises subsidised and responsive care.
Public sensitisation remains a priority, with town-hall engagements and community outreaches forming a core part of FRSC’s strategy.
Highlighting FRSC’s rising continental influence, he cited recent recognitions like the Nigeria Gov-Tech Award and the Kofi Annan Road Safety Award. The corps was also ranked top by the Center for Fiscal Transparency and secured its fifth ISO recertification in April.
Internationally, Nigeria will now host the Permanent Secretariat of the African Association of Lead Agencies in Road Safety Management.
“As a lead agency, we are not overwhelmed. We are committed, professional, and ready to meet this national challenge,” Mohammed asserted.
He concluded with a call for intensified operations, urging officers to remain disciplined as the corps prepares for tougher enforcement and wider safety campaigns in the second half of the year.
