Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
As the 2026 Easter holiday period approaches, Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps has intensified warnings to motorists to uphold proper road conduct to reduce crashes and save lives amid the expected surge in travel. The Corps’ message, delivered through national media platforms and public safety campaigns, underscores that while enforcement efforts will be stepped up before, during, and after the holiday, the responsibility for safe travel lies first and foremost with drivers themselves.
During a recent appearance on the Nigerian Television Authority’s programme Good Morning Nigeria, the Deputy Corps Public Education Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Osondu Ohaeri, called on motorists to strictly observe traffic laws and practice safety consciousness as part of their personal duty to protect themselves and others on the road. This guidance comes as millions of Nigerians prepare to travel long distances for Easter celebrations, a period that traditionally sees a sharp rise in road traffic and heightened risk of crashes.
Ohaeri reiterated that the FRSC is stepping up patrols, road safety education, and public warnings nationwide as part of its Special Easter Patrol Operations, which began on April 1 and are scheduled to run through April 8. This annual initiative mobilises personnel and operational assets across the country to manage increased vehicular movement, improve traffic flow, and respond swiftly to emergencies. Key national corridors and high-risk routes are being monitored more closely, and enforcement against dangerous driving behaviour such as speeding, reckless overtaking, and vehicle overloading is being intensified.
The Corps Marshal has directed that FRSC personnel, supported by patrol vehicles, ambulances, and tow trucks, be strategically deployed to ensure timely rescue responses, enforce compliance with traffic regulations, and assist motorists facing difficulties on the roads. Mobile courts are also being positioned along major highways to ensure that traffic offenders face prompt prosecution, reinforcing the message that adherence to road rules will be taken seriously during the holiday period.
Despite these enhanced measures, Ohaeri stressed that public enlightenment campaigns delivered through broadcast media, social channels, and community outreach are a vital complement to enforcement. Road users are being reminded to check that their vehicles are roadworthy before setting out, that tyres meet safety standards, and that drivers avoid distractions including the use of mobile phones while driving. Seat belt use and strict observance of posted speed limits have also been emphasised as basic yet life-saving habits.
Crucially, the FRSC official highlighted that while corps personnel will be visible and active on the nation’s highways, motorists themselves are the primary determinants of safety outcomes. Drivers have been urged to embark on journeys only when necessary, to plan their trips in advance, and to maintain a heightened sense of caution and courtesy towards other road users. Ohaeri’s appeal reflects a broader recognition within the Corps that reducing road traffic crashes depends as much on the behaviour of individuals behind the wheel as it does on enforcement and patrol presence.
This year’s Easter safety advisory also coincides with targeted campaigns in various states where the FRSC has been engaging directly with communities. In parts of the southeast, road safety outreach activities have been organised at public gatherings and faith-based institutions to share practical tips and to encourage collective responsibility for reducing accidents. Such grassroots engagements aim to reinforce road discipline beyond formal checkpoints and patrols.
The calls for heightened vigilance come amid broader statistics showing that road crashes remain a leading cause of injury and death on Nigerian highways. Previous analyses by the FRSC have identified speeding, tyre defects, and driver fatigue as among the most prevalent factors in collisions, particularly during peak travel seasons. The Easter admonitions therefore reflect a concerted effort by the Corps to address these persistent challenges before they result in avoidable loss of life.
Motorists have been reminded that the Federal Road Safety Corps is empowered by statute to enforce traffic laws, educate the public, and manage road incidents across Nigeria. The agency’s mandate includes checking vehicle roadworthiness, promoting safe highway use, and providing emergency rescue services, underscoring the integral role it plays in national road safety administration.
As Easter draws near and families hit the highways, the FRSC’s message underscores a balance between statutory enforcement and personal accountability. Drivers are being urged to view proper road conduct not merely as compliance with rules, but as a shared commitment to safeguarding human lives and ensuring that celebrations are marked by joyful reunions rather than tragedy.
Stone Reporters News
info@stonereportersnews.com | Facebook: Stone Reporters | X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | Instagram: stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments