The National Coordinator, Special Marshals, Adaji Usman, has expressed concerns about the apprehensive disposition of motorists when they sight personnel of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on the nation's highways. He stated that such nervousness was uncalled for, as FRSC personnel were not on the roads to generate revenue but to ensure the safety of road users. This was made known at the 2026 Special Marshals' Zonal Conference in Awka, Anambra State.
The conference, themed "Repositioning Special Marshals for Greater Impact Through Strategic Partnership and Data-driven Road Safety Intervention," aimed to remind members of their expectations regarding the vision and mission of FRSC. Adaji Usman emphasized that road safety is everybody's business and that safety generally is everyone's responsibility. He also noted that as a paramilitary organization, FRSC personnel must be guided by the rules of engagement.
Adaji Usman called on motorists to be patient with the ongoing repairs on the Niger Bridge, stating that the temporary inconveniences would be rewarding. He also described the theme of the conference as apt and timely, saying it provided an opportunity for members to reflect on their roles in ensuring road safety. Furthermore, he mentioned that FRSC personnel only enforce laws when motorists are recalcitrant.
The State Coordinator, Special Marshals, Ogbusa Michael, revealed that the ongoing construction of a hospital at Nteje in Oyi Local Government was part of efforts to complement FRSC functions. The project, which is 95% completed, aims to provide immediate attention to crash victims. Additionally, the special marshals carry out public enlightenment campaigns to schools, hospitals, and markets on the dangers of careless use of roads.
Ogbusa Michael identified ignorance of the motoring public about the functions of the special marshals as their major challenge. He regretted that this negative view has impacted their duty and mentioned an incident where the public initially saw them as a problem when they arrived at a crash scene to assist. However, he absolved his men of alleged extortion of motorists, describing them as men of proven integrity and captains of industries with means of livelihood.
FRSC State Sector Commander, Bridget Asekhauno, commended the special marshals for their continued commitment towards a safer Nigeria. The conference featured paper presentations by resource persons, including Prof Amaka Metu and Abba Ogbonnaya, a pharmacist. The event provided a platform for the special marshals to reflect on their roles and strategies for improving road safety.
The FRSC has continued to engage in various activities to promote road safety and prevent accidents on Nigerian highways. Through public enlightenment campaigns and strategic partnerships, the corps aims to reduce the number of crashes and promote a culture of safety among road users. The special marshals play a crucial role in this effort, working in synergy with FRSC personnel to ensure road safety.
Key points
- FRSC personnel are not on roads for revenue generation but to ensure safety of road users.
- The FRSC is building a hospital in Nteje to provide immediate attention to crash victims.
- The special marshals face challenges due to negative public perception of their roles and functions.
