13th April, 2018
The Federal Road Safety Corps, Benue Command, has indicated interest to partner with an NGO, Road Caution Awareness Initiative, to reduce road crashes and fatalities.
The Benue Sector Commander, Mr David Mendie, made the disclosure while receiving a team from the NGO led by Mr Noah Tsumbu, in his office on Friday in Makurdi.
According to him, the partnership will further enhance proactive measures already employed by the Corps to make Nigerian roads safer.
The sector commander disclosed that the corps’ target for the year is to reduce road fatalities by 30 percent, road traffic crashes by 50 percent and would need a synergy with such NGOs to achieve this.
Mendie, who also stated that road safety was everybody’s business, also urged all stakeholders to get involved.
“Our work is proactive” because a talk about prevention, patrol, traffic control and sensitisation helps prevent road crashes.
“But when they occur, we talk about rescue, post-crash care among others. I am proud that over the years, Road Safety has carried out the work it was established for.
“Sensitisation is key to our bid to ensure safer highways in the country. Road Safety is everybody’s business.
“As an organisation, we can’t do it alone`, so we welcome stronger partnership with stakeholders to achieve our goals,” he said.
Tsumbu, founder of the NGO, said the organisation wished to complement efforts of the FRSC, to enhance public education, and enlightenment campaign on road safety.
“We are partnering with the FRSC to create public awareness and to encourage Nigerians to embrace the culture of safer road use.
“This is to help reduce the numerous road crashes and reduce loss of lives on our major roads within the metropolis.
“We will create better understanding between road users and the authorities concerned.
“We will use theatrical means such as dramas, dance and music to ensure a high level of safety on our roads.
“We need the support and involvement of every individual, as well as the public and private sectors in order to drive home all our safety messages,’’ he said.