Youth-Led Road Safety Push Encouraged for 2025 by FRSC

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) recently called on Nigerian youth to take the lead in championing safer roads across the country. The call was made at the 2025 Road Safety Hangout in Abuja by the FCT Sector Commander, Mr Felix Theman.

The theme of the event, "Safer Roads, Brighter Future; Youth Leading the Change", aligns with the UN International Youth Week theme: "Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond". The FRSC values its relationship with the youth, acknowledging their potential in shaping a safer and more sustainable nation.

According to Theman, the event is in line with the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed's call for a national meeting to improve road and traffic safety. Theman expressed concern over the unsafe driving behaviors of some young road users, including commercial motorcycle riders, tricycle operators, ride-hailing drivers, bus and taxi operators, private vehicle owners, and truck drivers.

Impatience, disobedience of traffic lights, driving against traffic, use of handsets while driving, overloading, illegal and unsafe parking, use of unpainted taxis, speeding, and failure to use pedestrian bridges are major concerns for road safety in the FCT. To address these issues, the FRSC has increased mobile court sessions to enforce traffic laws. Over 250 drivers and riders were arrested for more than 550 offences in a recent mobile court session.

Penalties for traffic offences include community service, driver's licence suspension, and prescribed fines. Theman stressed that the active participation, discipline, and commitment of the youth are crucial to achieving a brighter and safer future for the country.

The FRSC started with a youth-driven foundation and believes that by working together, they can build an enduring culture of safety. The sector commander commended the Ministry of Youth Development, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), representatives of religious organisations, and youth groups for supporting the initiative.

The hangout is designed to celebrate the energy and potential of young people and their critical role in shaping a safer and more sustainable nation. He urged youths to adopt responsible driving habits, embrace technology for safer mobility, engage in peer-to-peer education, and champion community safety initiatives.

Theman also emphasised the importance of empowering young people with road safety knowledge and leadership opportunities. He believes that this investment will yield lifelong dividends. The theme of the 2025 Road Safety Hangout remains "Safer Roads, Brighter Future; Youth Leading the Change", underscoring the FRSC's commitment to youth-led road safety initiatives.