FRSC Reports Decline in Road Fatalities Despite Rise in 2025 Crashes
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) recorded 10,446 road traffic crashes and 5,289 fatalities nationwide in 2025, according to data released on Wednesday. While the total number of crashes rose compared to 2024, the death toll decreased by 2.4 per cent, saving 132 lives.
Corps Marshal Malam Shehu Mohammed announced the figures during a press briefing in Abuja. He noted that the reduction in fatalities confirms that post-crash response interventions are effective but fell short of the Corps’ 10 per cent strategic reduction target. The data, he stated, signifies that the FRSC’s challenge is evolving from response alone to a greater focus on prevention, compliance, and deterrence.
A comparative analysis with 2024 shows total crashes increased by 9.2 per cent from 9,570. Fatal crashes rose 3.0 per cent (2,532 to 2,608), serious crashes increased 10.5 per cent (6,131 to 6,772), and minor crashes jumped 17.5 per cent (907 to 1,066). The number of persons injured also rose by 7.2 per cent, from 31,154 to 33,400.
This occurred alongside a significant rise in road users. Passenger traffic grew 2.54 per cent to 47.47 million, while the number of vehicles travelling increased 1.25 per cent to 3.74 million. Luxury bus operations expanded by 5.51 per cent, and total kilometres covered grew 9.05 per cent to 4.88 billion kilometres.
“The data confirms that both vehicle and persons travelled increased significantly in 2025, leading to higher vehicle volumes, mobility and economic activity,” the Corps Marshal said. “Despite this increased exposure, fatalities declined, meaning 132 lives were saved compared to 2024. The increase in injuries reflects higher crash occurrence alongside improved post-crash survival and rescue outcomes.”
Mr. Mohammed stressed that enforcement and emergency response must be intensified, stating, “We therefore measure success not only by targets but by lives preserved.”
He commended the media as a critical ally in promoting road safety through objective reportage and advocacy. The Corps Marshal also thanked President Bola Tinubu and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, for their strategic support, which he said has strengthened the FRSC’s capacity and operational effectiveness.
