By Raji Rasak
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Friday sought the support of transport unions to minimise road traffic crashes during and after the Yuletide.
Mr Yusuf Sanni, the Unit Commander, FRSC, Badagry, made the appeal during a stakeholders’ meeting with all transport unions in the town.
According to the unit commander, there are usually increased human and vehicular movement during the Yuletide, which makes the period high-risk.
“Road safety is not just a government job, it’s a collective responsibility. We need you, stakeholders, to work hand-in-glove with us to minimise road traffic crashes on our roads.
“We realise that collaboration is key.
“Together, we can make our road safer. Your input, your support and your partnership are crucial in driving change.
“Specifically, we need your support in rescue service during crashes,” he said.
Sanni said that with the backing of the transport unions, the corps could achieve safer roads, fewer crashes, and quicker responses when necessary.
The unit commander urged the drivers plying highways to ensure they obtained their driver’s licenses to avoid arrest on the highway.
Sanni thanked the unions for all the support they had extended to his predecessor, and urged that the same gesture would also be shown to him.
Chief Akeem Sanni, the Branch Chairman, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Seme, said the union would continue to support the FRSC to achieve its objectives.
Sanni said that in every association, there are always bad eggs, adding that he would not allow any driver without license to load in his parks.
Mr Bode Akintade, the President of Mega City Drivers Union, Badagry, urged drivers to make sure that they are sane with their sense organs working perfectly before they drive on the highway.
Akintade advised members to desist from taking alcohol while driving.
Alhaji Ganiyu Adelani, the Chairman, Petroleum Marketers in Badagry, urged drivers to utilise the training they had undergone when driving.
He urged drivers to always ensure they had their driver’s licenses, adding that without a license, they are not authorised to drive on the highway.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the FRSC used the event to train drivers and stakeholders on the importance of drivers and what they needed to do before traveling.
NAN also reports that the transport unions in the meeting included members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), commercial motorcyclists unions, and tricycle unions. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)