On Sunday, November 24, 2024, The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) intensified its public safety advocacy with a visit to St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, GRA, Zaria, Kaduna State, to educate worshippers on road safety practices during the ember season. The team, led by *Superintendent Route Commander (SRC) Musa Sanusi,* used the occasion to highlight safety measures crucial for minimizing road accidents as travel increases during the festive period.

The visit coincided with a Sunday service, during which the FRSC team joined the congregation in praying for divine protection over road users. Their presence reminded citizens and road safety agencies of the shared responsibility to ensure accident-free roads during this high-traffic season.

Opening Address: “Safety is for Everyone.”

Assistant Route Commander (ARC) E. Ozigbe opened the session with a thought-provoking message:
“The FRSC exists because of you. Our goal is not to punish but to create awareness. Safety is not just for drivers—it is for everyone. Commit your day to God and follow safety precautions at all times.”

He cited a tragic example of a pedestrian fatally struck by a reckless driver, emphasising that road safety is a collective responsibility. Whether as drivers, passengers, or pedestrians, all road users must play their part in ensuring safety.

Practical Safety Guidelines Shared

The FRSC team provided detailed road safety guidelines:

1. Pre-trip Inspections:
Drivers must ensure their vehicles are roadworthy by checking the brake system, engine oil, water levels, lights, and tyres before every trip.

2. Obey Traffic Rules:
Compliance with speed limits, road signs, and other traffic regulations is non-negotiable.

3. Speak Up for Safety:
Passengers should feel empowered to correct reckless drivers, whether they are overspeeding, overtaking dangerously, or distracted.

4. Avoid Overloading:
Drivers and passengers should adhere to the vehicle’s capacity limits, as overloading significantly increases accident risks.

5. Driver Fitness:
Do not allow fatigued, aggressive, or visibly unfit drivers to operate vehicles.

Highlighting Common Road Hazards

Superintendent Route Commander Musa Sanusi expanded on dangerous driving habits observed during the ember season, including:

Distracted Driving: Instances of drivers making phone calls or engaging in other activities while driving at high speeds were cited as leading causes of accidents.

Overloading and Aggressive Driving: Many drivers ignore standard safety protocols, such as carrying excessive passengers or overtaking recklessly, leading to fatal outcomes.

Health Risks: Some drivers with untreated medical conditions, such as epilepsy, attempt high-speed journeys, creating catastrophic scenarios when attacks occur on the road.

Fatigue: Drivers who operate vehicles for prolonged periods without rest are more likely to lose control due to exhaustion or drowsiness.

Key Message: “Good Use of Bad Roads Saves Lives”

SRC Sanusi highlighted an important insight:
“Bad roads don’t necessarily cause accidents; bad use of good roads kills. Let us use all roads responsibly.”

The service leader for the day, Mrs N. Ibrahim, called on contractors to ensure proper road signage during construction projects to minimise confusion and risks for drivers and pedestrians.

Faith and Safety: A Holistic Approach

The FRSC team emphasised the importance of combining practical safety measures with spiritual guidance, urging everyone to commit their journeys and daily activities to God.

*Church’s Support and Prayer

Ven. Saidu D. Isuwa, the Vicar of St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, thanked the FRSC for their impactful message. He prayed for the safety of all Nigerians during this challenging economic period and encouraged the congregation to apply the tips shared. The session concluded with a group photograph featuring the FRSC team and the church’s pastoral leadership.

Conclusion: Safety is a Shared Responsibility

As the ember season progresses, the FRSC urges all Nigerians to prioritize safety. Whether as drivers, passengers, or pedestrians, everyone has a role to play in reducing road accidents. Road safety is not just an individual responsibility; it is a collective mission to protect lives.
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