The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) have initiated a major collaborative drive to make highways in Borno State safer. The joint sensitisation campaign, launched at motor parks and major roads, aims to significantly curb the alarming rate of accidents and fatalities.
Campaign Launch and Ambitious Target
Unveiling the initiative in Maiduguri on December 8, 2025, the FRSC Sector Commander for Borno, Usman Muhammed, outlined a clear objective. The partnership has set a target of achieving a 10% reduction in deaths and injuries resulting from the perennial road crashes in the state. He emphasized that the campaign is designed to promote a lasting culture of safe driving and proper vehicle upkeep among all road users.
Key Focus Areas and Stark Warnings
The campaign will heavily involve stakeholders through engagements at motor parks and markets. Commander Muhammed urged drivers, particularly those operating heavy-duty trucks, to ensure their vehicles are road-worthy. He specifically highlighted the importance of good, threaded tyres for proper road gripping.
He issued strong warnings against dangerous practices that commonly lead to accidents. These include over-speeding, wrongful overtaking, and indiscriminate parking. To drive the point home, he reminded drivers that road crashes claimed 5,421 lives across Nigeria in just the first quarter of 2024.
NEMA officials present at the event added another crucial safety caution. They advised drivers against the risky habit of collecting fuel in gallons while their vehicle engines are still running, a practice that can lead to fires.
Grassroots Support and Statewide Expansion
The initiative has received endorsement from transport unions. Alhaji Wakil, Secretary of the Wuje Tipper-Truck Drivers Association (TTDA), commended the FRSC and assured that drivers would adhere to regular vehicle maintenance to help reduce crashes.
The safety campaign is not limited to Maiduguri. The FRSC plans to extend it to other key areas of Borno State, including Biu, Monguno, Bama, Mafa, and the border community of Gwoza. This expansive reach underscores the agencies' commitment to safeguarding lives and property on every major road in the state.
