The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume says the digital innovation of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC is aimed at significantly improving road safety, aligning with the “Renewed Hope” agenda of the current administration, which prioritizes technological advancements to enhance the safety of lives and properties across Nigeria.
The launch event, which gathered high-ranking officials, stakeholders, and representatives from various sectors, highlighted the need for urgent action to reduce road accidents and fatalities. In his address, Senator Akume praised the FRSC’s digitalization efforts, stressing that the launch of these platforms is a major step in the modernization of the Corps’ operations. The FRSC Mobile App, specifically developed for smartphones, offers features like eyewitness crash reporting, emergency response alerts, speed detection, and notifications on dangerous black spots. Additionally, the app enables users to check the expiration dates of their driver’s licenses and vehicle documents, and even access the National Traffic Radio for real-time traffic updates.
Akume emphasized the importance of the new systems, stating that they would strengthen the country’s road safety framework by making drivers, passengers, and road safety officers more proactive in preventing accidents. He cited alarming statistics, revealing that from January to December 2023, 5,081 lives were lost to road crashes, while 31,874 Nigerians were injured. For the first half of 2024 alone, 2,776 deaths and 16,309 injuries were recorded. These figures, he said, highlight the critical need for innovative measures like the FRSC Mobile App and NACRIS to minimize road traffic crashes and ensure a safer motoring environment.
“The launch of the FRSC Mobile App and NACRIS is a monumental step towards making our roads safer. These digital tools will empower drivers and passengers alike to stay informed and take preventive measures to avoid accidents. This initiative is a testament to the Tinubu administration’s commitment to utilizing technology to enhance road safety and protect the lives of all Nigerians,” Akume noted.
During his remarks, the Corps Marshal commended the FRSC management for delivering on the promise of digital transformation. He also reiterated the need for all stakeholders, including the Nigeria Police, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Works, and Ministry of Transportation, to work closely with FRSC in ensuring that the benefits of these digital platforms are maximized.
The FRSC Mobile App is expected to make it easier for drivers to report emergencies and receive quick assistance, while NACRIS will provide comprehensive data on road traffic crashes to aid in policy-making and road safety strategies. This information will allow the government and relevant stakeholders to craft more targeted interventions to reduce road crashes and enhance public safety.
Senator Akume further commended the FRSC for aligning with President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which focuses on the country’s digital transformation and economic growth. He assured the public of the Federal Government’s commitment to providing adequate support for the sustenance of these projects, which are designed to reduce road crashes, injuries, and deaths on Nigerian highways.
As the event concluded, Senator Akume officially launched the FRSC Mobile App and NACRIS, congratulating the Corps Marshal and the entire FRSC for their dedication to road safety in Nigeria. He urged all road users to embrace the technology, highlighting that collective effort is essential for achieving the goal of safer roads across the country.
“This app and reporting system are not just technological advancements; they represent a new dawn for road safety administration in Nigeria. Together, with the help of every Nigerian, we can achieve our goal of creating a safer and more efficient road transport system,” he concluded.
The event attracted notable dignitaries, including Senator Titus Zam, representing the President of the Senate; Hon. Abiodun Deren Adesina, Chairman of the House Committee on FRSC; and Mallam Ahmed Nuhu Bamali, the Emir of Zazzau. Several other representatives from key security agencies, media executives, transport union leaders, and civil society organizations were also present to witness the launch.
The launch marks a significant shift in the way road safety is managed in Nigeria, with digital tools set to revolutionize the nation’s approach to reducing traffic accidents and saving lives.
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