FRSC @37: The journey so far

It is exactly 37 years since the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) was established and today it is celebrating 37 years of its existence, and what a journey it has been! No matter what the cynics may posit, the FRSC has made significant strides in improving road safety in Nigeria. 

With the advent of Decree Number 45 of 1988 as amended by Decree Number 35 of 1992, later codified as FRSC Act (CAP 141) Laws of the Federation 1990 and FRSC Act CAP F19, LFN, 2004; FRSC (Establishment) Act, 2007 road safety administration entered a new beginning.

The organisation was specifically established and empowered by legislation to co-ordinate road safety administration and traffic management in Nigeria with an ultimate aim of halting the trend of road traffic crashes and fatalities on all roads in the country.

Unlike other agencies of government, the establishment of FRSC was in conformity with the lead agency concept recommended by the United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), that member nations should dedicate an agency of government to lead in coordinating road safety management as a best global practice to combat the scourge of death and injuries from road transport crashes.

The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, a prince of the Za’zau Emirate in Kaduna state, is destined to be the helmsman at this auspicious occasion in the existence of the corps. He has set the pace as he is ready and willing to make a difference and has a mission to change and improve the fortunes of the FRSC in areas of policy formulation, operational strategies and human capital development. A gentleman who has the knack for revolutionary transformation, certainly the story of the corps has changed for good under leadership of Shehu Mohammed.

In its 37 years as the lead agency in traffic and safety management in Nigeria, the FRSC has recorded tremendous achievements in the areas of Traffic Engineering, Road Safety Administration, Traffic Management, Rescue Operation, and Crash Reduction.

It has achieved this glorious feat as a result of a chain of leadership ingenuity that includes the services of volunteers who are called Special Marshals and other groups in its programmes to enhance road safety management across the country.

With its present 12 Zonal Commands, 37 Sector Commands, 213 Unit Commands, 41 Out Posts, FRSC Academy, FRSC Training Schools, FRSC Staff College, 214 Driver License Centres/Work Stations, 1 Signage Plant, 1 National Driver License Print Firm, 43 Emergency Ambulance Points (ZEBRAs), and 17 Staff Clinics; there is therefore no doubt that the corps has witnessed tremendous expansion in these 37 years rising from its hitherto few command structures to having representation in all the 774 local government areas of the federation.

During the period under review, the agency has also improved in Road Safety Management. Incidentally, the FRSC has been designated as Nigeria’s lead agency for road safety, and its efforts have led to a significant reduction in road traffic crashes and fatalities. Besides, it has enhanced public enlightenment and education such as it has been actively involved in promoting public awareness and education on road safety, which has contributed to a change in the behaviour of road users.

It also has effective Patrol Operations and Rescue Services. The FRSC has established a robust patrol system and provides prompt rescue services to accident victims, which has helped to reduce the impact of road crashes.

The FRSC has fostered partnerships with various stakeholders, including state governments, transport unions, and other agencies, to promote road safety and reduce crashes.

In the area of development of road safety policies and regulations, the corps, under the leadership of Shehu Mohammed, has played a key role in the development of road safety policies and regulations, including the establishment of speed limits and the promotion of safe driving practices.

These achievements demonstrate the FRSC’s commitment to improving road safety in Nigeria, and its efforts have had a positive impact on the lives of millions of Nigerians. Despite its laudable achievements, the FRSC faces several challenges and shortcomings, which include Inadequate funding. The FRSC’s budget is often insufficient to cover its operational costs, leading to limitations in its ability to effectively patrol roads and respond to emergencies.

In spite of its limited personnel and equipment, the FRSC faces a shortage of personnel and equipment, particularly in rural areas, which hinders its ability to effectively enforce road safety regulations. Like many other government agencies in Nigeria, the FRSC is faced with allegations of corruption, including bribery and extortion, which is undermining its effectiveness.

Also, the FRSC’s efforts are often hindered by the poor state of Nigeria’s road infrastructure, including potholes, inadequate lighting, and lack of road signs thereby increasing rates of accidents and crashes. The corps sometimes faces resistance from the public, particularly from commercial drivers and other stakeholders, who may view its efforts as overly restrictive or punitive. Hence the need to allow some of the personnel on the highway to bear arms.

The FRSC’s data collection and analysis capabilities are limited, making it difficult to track trends and develop effective strategies to address road safety challenges. The corps enforcement powers are limited, and it often relies on other agencies, such as the police, to enforce road safety regulations. Addressing these shortcomings however will require sustained efforts from the FRSC, the Nigerian government, and other stakeholders to provide adequate funding, resources, and support.

On the global scene, however, FRSC under Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed takes leadership role of West African Road Safety Organisation (WARSO) as part of measures to raise the bar on road safety management within the West African subregion. Nigeria has provided technical assistance to Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Ethiopia.

To function better, therefore, the FRSC could consider the following strategies: Increase budget allocation; provide adequate funding to support FRSC’s operations, including personnel, equipment, and infrastructure. It should explore alternative funding sources; consider partnerships with private organisations, NGOs, and international agencies to supplement funding.

Others are: improve operational efficiency; modernise equipment and technology; upgrade communication systems, patrol vehicles, and other equipment to enhance operational efficiency; implement a robust data management system; develop a comprehensive data collection and analysis system to inform decision-making and track performance.

Foster stronger partnerships with other law enforcement agencies, such as the police, to enhance enforcement and coordination; enhance public engagement and education. Develop targeted public awareness campaigns to promote road safety and encourage responsible driving behaviours.

Implement effective sanctions and incentives; develop and enforce a system of sanctions for traffic offenders, while also recognising and rewarding safe drivers; address infrastructure challenges; advocate improved road infrastructure; collaborate with other agencies and stakeholders to prioritise road maintenance and construction projects.

Develop strategic partnerships with the private sector companies and NGOs to support road safety initiatives and infrastructure development; establish a robust monitoring and evaluation system; foster a culture of transparency; encourage open communication, provide regular updates on FRSC activities, and respond promptly to public inquiries and concerns.

By implementing these strategies, the FRSC can improve its effectiveness, enhance road safety, and reduce the incidence of accidents on Nigerian roads. To this end, road safety administration in Nigeria has witnessed a paradigm shift from Traditional approach to Safe Systems Approach through the use of state of the art Information Technology facilities; the Corps has been able to enhance its operational capacity aimed at promoting public safety and security.

As the corps looks back to see where it was coming from, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, who is on a mission to improve the fortunes of FRSC in tandem with the Renewed Hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has set the ball rolling. Let’s clink the glasses and celebrate with the corps on these laudable achievements in the 37 years of its existence.