The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has disclosed that no fewer than 3,433 people lost their lives in road crashes across Nigeria between January and September 2025, with 22,162 others sustaining injuries in 6,858 incidents nationwide.

FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed revealed the figures during a press conference in Abuja on October 20, while launching the 2025 Ember Months Public Enlightenment and Sensitisation Campaign. He attributed the high fatalities primarily to reckless driving and human error, emphasizing that driver behaviour remains the fundamental element in highway safety.

“This year’s statistics show a slight decline in overall crashes compared to previous years, but the loss of lives is still unacceptable,” Mohammed stated. “From our records, 3,433 persons were killed and 22,162 injured out of 6,858 reported road crashes in the first nine months.”

The data marks a concerning trend despite ongoing interventions. In the first half of 2025 alone, 2,838 fatalities were recorded in 5,281 crashes, representing a 2.2% increase from the same period in 2024. By September, the toll had risen sharply, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance as the festive season approaches.

The Ember Months campaign, themed “Take Responsibility for Your Safety: Stop Distracted Driving,” runs from September to December and targets the usual spike in accidents during this period, driven by increased travel for holidays and business. Mohammed noted that the initiative aims to curb violations like speeding, overloading, wrongful overtaking, and route infractions, which account for most incidents.

To enforce compliance, the FRSC plans to deploy additional personnel and Special Marshals along major highways and high-risk corridors. The agency will also conduct free vehicle safety checks, organize motor park rallies, and hold town hall meetings with transport unions and stakeholders. “These measures are expected to significantly reduce the percentage of road crashes and drive down related deaths and injuries,” Mohammed added.

In a related development, the Corps Marshal highlighted the revival of the FRSC Annual Lecture Series, which promotes national dialogue on road safety as a public health issue. Preparations are also underway for an International Conference on Road Crash Victims in Africa, scheduled for November 16–18, 2025, in partnership with the KRSD Road Safety Foundation. The event will focus on strengthening post-crash care, aligning with the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety.

Mohammed urged all Nigerians to support the Corps’ efforts, declaring the campaign officially open. “I urge all Nigerians to continue to support the Corps as we strive to create a safer motoring environment for our dear nation.”

State-level data echoes the national concern. In Niger State, the FRSC attributed major crashes to reckless driving and overloading of persons, goods, and animals, with 688 deaths recorded over the last two years. Meanwhile, Abia State reported a decline in crashes and fatalities in 2025 compared to 2024, crediting collaborative efforts with state government and security agencies. The FRSC’s 2025 corporate goal is to achieve a 10% reduction in road traffic fatalities and injuries through focused interventions.

The Ember Months period, from December 15 to January 15, often sees a surge in crashes due to poor road conditions, vehicle maintenance issues, and driver fatigue. Last year’s Operation Zero, running from December 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025, recorded 432 deaths and 2,070 injuries from 533 crashes, highlighting the persistent challenge.

Experts and stakeholders have welcomed the campaign but called for broader reforms, including stricter enforcement of the National Road Traffic Regulations and investment in road infrastructure. Transport unions have pledged cooperation, with leaders committing to educate members on safe driving practices.

Source: Read more at channelstv.com