FRSC Calls on Special Marshals to Make Personal Safety a Top Priority in Road Safety Efforts

Table of Contents

1. Advice on Personal Safety
2. Concern for Volunteers
3. Difficult Conditions Faced
4. Importance of Environment Assessment
5. Value of Special Marshals
6. Road Crash Statistics

The Deputy Corps Marshal for Special Duties and External Relations of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Pauline Olaye, has urged special marshals in Bauchi State to prioritize their personal safety while carrying out voluntary traffic duties.

During a one-day capacity-building workshop for special marshals held in Bauchi on Saturday, Olaye expressed her concerns that some volunteers have been injured or struck by vehicles while working to promote safety for other road users.

She pointed out that FRSC personnel continue to encounter challenging situations, including highway insecurity, low public awareness, misinformation, and the heightened risks associated with traffic control.

“It is impossible to advocate for safety while operating in unsafe conditions. Protecting our Special Marshals during field operations is not only necessary but essential,” she stated.

Speaking on her behalf, the Zonal Commanding Officer of RS12 Bauchi, Yakubu Mohammed, encouraged the volunteers to thoroughly evaluate their surroundings before entering the roadway.

“Some drivers may have visual impairments or be under the influence of substances. Avoid direct confrontation with oncoming vehicles. Your safety is the top priority,” she warned.

In addition, Zonal Commanding Officer Yakubu Mohammed described the special marshals as individuals of commendable character who willingly devote their time, resources, and commitment to ensuring safer roads.

“Your contributions are invaluable,” he remarked.

Mohammed emphasized the global impact of road crashes, noting that they lead to approximately 1.3 million preventable deaths and 50 million injuries each year, making them the leading cause of death among children and young adults.

He disclosed that Bauchi State experienced 283 road traffic crashes in 2024, resulting in 152 fatalities and 1,402 injuries.

“These deaths are preventable and unacceptable. We must persist in our efforts to create safer roads. However, before we can ensure safety for others, we must first ensure our own safety,” he concluded.