The Kogi State Government in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) plan to intensify campaign to ensure safer highways and reduce road crashes as the Ember Months begin.

The initiative was unveiled in Lokoja during a one-day stakeholders’ focus group discussion themed: “Better Road Culture and Reducing Road Traffic Crashes in the State”, convened by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Road Safety Matters.

In his address, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo on Road Safety Matters, Hon. Suberu Yusuf reaffirmed the governor’s commitment to reducing accidents and traffic violations while protecting lives across the state.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility, and Governor Ododo’s administration is determined to strengthen partnerships with all stakeholders to guarantee safety on our roads,” he said.

He further disclosed that a Road Safety Summit would be held before the end of the year, bringing together transport unions, civil society groups, business owners and other stakeholders.

He also announced the inauguration of a Road Safety Council Committee to deepen collaboration and improve compliance with traffic regulations.

Also speaking, the Sector Commander of FRSC, Kumar Tsukwam, commended the government’s proactive approach and pledged the readiness of the Road Safety authority to support enforcement and sensitisation measures, particularly against over-speeding, overloading, and other traffic infractions that often lead to road crashes.

Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Hon. Mouktar Atima, pledged his agency’s support, assuring that efforts would be intensified to make Kogi roads safer during the Ember Months.

Similarly, Assistant Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Comrade Austin Omeiza, applauded the initiative and promised the union’s collaboration in sensitising drivers and promoting safety standards to curb crashes during the festive season.