The ember months have arrived, bringing increased human and vehicular activities as the year winds down. This period is traditionally associated with more movement of people, commercial activities, social engagements, and long-distance journeys across Nigeria. Unfortunately, it is also a time when the country often experiences a surge in road traffic crashes, resulting in fatalities and injuries. With over 5,000 reported deaths annually from road traffic crashes, a disturbing trend continues.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), 9,570 road traffic crashes were recorded in 2024, resulting in 5,421 deaths and 31,154 injuries. In 2025, there were 10,446 crashes, 5,289 deaths, and 33,400 injuries. Although there was a 2.4% reduction in deaths in 2025 compared to 2024, the number of injured persons increased by 7.2%, while serious crashes rose by 10.5%. These statistics demonstrate the need for more action to be taken.
The FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, has introduced reforms and a strategic approach to address the factors responsible for road crashes. The Corps has implemented operational measures to reduce crashes and improve compliance among road users. A notable example is the special operation against articulated vehicle-related crashes along the Abuja-Keffi road, particularly the Kugbo axis. Such targeted interventions should be sustained and replicated in other parts of the country.
Human behavior remains a significant factor in many road traffic crashes. Speed violations, driving while using mobile phones, dangerous overtaking, fatigue, poor vehicle maintenance, and disregard for traffic regulations are practices that continue to endanger lives. Drivers must understand that reaching a destination a few minutes earlier is never worth risking a human life. The ember months should be a time for greater caution, patience, and responsibility.
The movement of articulated vehicles during busy periods on major roads requires urgent attention. While truck drivers and operators have legitimate economic responsibilities, their movements must be properly regulated to minimize conflicts with other road users. The success of the special operation along the Abuja-Keffi Kugbo axis should encourage the development of similar coordinated interventions across the federation.
Road safety cannot be left to the FRSC alone; it requires a coordinated response from various stakeholders. State and local governments, road construction agencies, vehicle inspection authorities, transport operators, vehicle owners, driving schools, security agencies, and individual road users all have important roles to play. The Federal Government must also give road safety the level of attention it gives to the aviation sector.
To achieve significant and sustained reductions in road crashes and fatalities, the FRSC must be adequately funded and equipped. The welfare of the men and women of the Corps who work tirelessly to save lives and enforce road safety regulations also deserves recognition and improved remuneration. As the ember months unfold, every Nigerian must remember that road safety is a collective responsibility that requires responsible drivers, safer vehicles, better roads, effective enforcement, and a government that treats road safety as a national priority.
Key points
- Nigeria records over 5,000 reported deaths annually from road traffic crashes.
- The FRSC recorded 9,570 road traffic crashes in 2024, resulting in 5,421 deaths and 31,154 injuries.
- Road safety requires a coordinated response from various stakeholders, including government, FRSC, and individual road users.
