The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) has dispelled the notion that road crashes are mere accidents, stating that they are actually the result of human actions or inactions. Corps Marshal Dauda Biu made this assertion during the 2023 Sectoral Workshop held in Calabar with the theme “Volunteerism in Road Safety Management: Limits and Possibilities.”
Acknowledging Excellence in Traffic Safety
The workshop also served as an occasion to honor two honorary marshals and 24 eminent marshals for their exceptional contributions to traffic safety in the nation.
Representing Corps Marshal Dauda Biu at the event, Corps Commander Anthony Etuechere emphasized the importance of reviewing and analyzing their activities in reducing road crashes. According to him, road crashes can be prevented if all drivers embrace safe driving practices and advocacy.
Volunteerism: A Selfless Approach for Ensuring Road Safety
Biu highlighted the significance of volunteerism in achieving their statutory mandate. The FRSC established a volunteer arm called the special marshal, which operates without receiving any remuneration. By fostering a selfless, nationalistic, and contributory mindset, the corps aims to achieve a five percent reduction in road traffic deaths and injuries. This will be accomplished through the enhancement of capacity for data collection, analysis, and management.
Assistant Corps Marshal Jonathan Owade, who oversees the four neighboring states of Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa, stressed the need for the workshop to reinvigorate the Corps and prepare it for the upcoming “ember months,” known for increased vehicular movement and potential risks on the road.
Marshals on a Mission: Ensuring Safety Across the Nation
Owade expressed his appreciation for the presence and dedication of the corp marshals in all 774 Local Government Areas. He emphasized that the visibility of safety marshals signifies the FRSC’s commitment to ensuring safety on the highways. He also encouraged well-meaning Nigerians to join the corps in promoting road safety.
John Umori, the Zonal Coordinator of the Special Marshal in RS Six Port Harcourt, stated that he and his colleagues joined the marshal to serve. In the past, there was hesitation to assist accident victims due to fear of being accused. Today, with the presence of Safety Marshals, this fear is a thing of the past. Umori explained that safety marshals are trained in first aid and other essential skills to assist road traffic users regardless of their familiarity with the victim.
In conclusion, the FRSC seeks to change the narrative surrounding road crashes by highlighting the role of human responsibility. With the support of volunteers and safety marshals, they are determined to make Nigerian roads safer by reducing fatalities and injuries through data-driven strategies and enhanced road safety measures.
[NAN]
