THE increasing number of deaths on Nigerian roads is a matter of grave concern that demands urgent attention from every segment of society. Recently, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) disclosed that 5,421 people lost their lives in road traffic crashes in 2024. This figure represents a seven per cent increase from the 5,081 fatalities recorded in 2023, and it starkly underlines the persistent challenges that plague our highways. These figures were announced by FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed during a press briefing in Abuja, marking the conclusion of the “Operation Zero Tolerance” special patrol campaign.
What is particularly perplexing is that this rise in fatalities has occurred despite a 10 per cent reduction in the overall number of road crashes nationwide. In 2024, 9,570 incidents were recorded, compared with 10,617 in the previous year. While both the number of crashes and injuries experienced a slight decline, the total number of people involved in accidents increased by one per cent, from 70,092 in 2023 to 70,530 in 2024. These statistics suggest that although fewer incidents are occurring, those that do happen tend to be far more severe and often fatal.
The FRSC has attributed this disturbing trend primarily to human factors such as reckless driving, overloading, and fatigue. In addition, secondary incidents – notably, the scooping of fuel from overturned tankers – have further exacerbated the situation, claiming 411 lives last year. Such behaviour on our highways, which are not designed for racing, reflects a deep-seated disregard for road safety regulations and the sanctity of human life.
Despite concerted efforts to enforce road safety laws, the outcomes have been inconsistent. Although the FRSC reported a reduction in traffic violations, with arrests dropping from 29,220 in 2023 to 21,580 in 2024, this improvement has not resulted in a corresponding decrease in fatalities. This discrepancy raises serious concerns about whether current enforcement strategies are adequately addressing the underlying behavioural issues that lead to catastrophic accidents.
It is clear that, while some progress has been made in reducing the overall number of crashes, greater efforts are needed to ensure that the accidents that do occur are less deadly. Achieving this requires a multifaceted approach that extends beyond simple enforcement. The FRSC, in partnership with other government agencies and stakeholders, must strengthen procedures for issuing certificates and verifying vehicle roadworthiness. More rigorous inspections and maintenance regimes are essential to ensure that every vehicle on Nigerian roads meet strict safety standards.
Furthermore, there is an urgent need for comprehensive educational programmes aimed at transforming driver behaviour. The government should invest in public awareness campaigns that highlight the severe consequences of reckless driving, overloading and fatigue. Such initiatives must be designed not only to inform but also to inspire a change in attitudes and practices among motorists. The prevailing culture of indiscipline on our roads must be tackled head-on if we are to reverse this tragic trend, for each statistic represents not merely a number but a life lost and a family left bereft.
Ultimately, the rising death toll on Nigerian roads is a clarion call for decisive action, enhanced accountability and a renewed commitment to road safety. Only through concerted, collaborative efforts can we hope to reverse these alarming trends and restore confidence in the safety of our highways. The time for complacency has long passed, and the urgent need for reform cannot be overstated.
It is incumbent upon all stakeholders—from government officials and law enforcement to individual motorists—to champion road safety initiatives. Only by addressing both systemic issues and personal responsibility can Nigeria hope to create safer roads and reduce this reckless loss of lives.
