The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is set for a major overhaul following the second reading of a new bill in the House of Representatives. This bill proposes to arm the FRSC and introduce several provisions aimed at improving road safety and enforcement across Nigeria.
Sponsored by Reps. Abiodun Derin Adesida and Olaide Lateef Muhammed, the bill seeks to amend the FRSC Act of 2007 and pave the way for a more robust approach to traffic management and road safety.
Key Provisions of the New FRSC Bill
The bill is designed to strengthen the FRSC’s operations and give it the authority to act more decisively on the roads. Here are the major highlights:
- Special Armed Squad for FRSC
A standout feature of the bill is the creation of a Special Armed Squad within the FRSC. This unit will be equipped to handle violent situations, ensuring officers can better protect themselves and enforce traffic laws effectively.
- Welfare and Retirement Benefits for Deputy Corps Marshals
The bill also aims to improve the welfare of high-ranking FRSC officers, particularly Deputy Corps Marshals, by ensuring they receive proper retirement benefits. This move is expected to reward and motivate long-serving officers.
- Exclusive Road Traffic Management Authority
Once passed, the bill will give the FRSC full control over road traffic management and enforcement. This includes not only preventing accidents and managing road safety but also educating the public on safe driving practices.
- Authority to Remove Road Obstructions
The bill also empowers the FRSC to clear any obstruction on public roads to ensure smooth traffic flow. This provision will help reduce accidents caused by blockages or hazards on the roads.
Lawmakers Back the Bill
The new bill received widespread support in the House of Representatives. Lawmakers unanimously passed the bill’s second reading through a voice vote, underscoring the importance of empowering the FRSC to better manage road safety.
Tech-Driven Road Safety Measures
In addition to passing the bill, the House adopted a motion introduced by Rep. Garba Ibrahim Muhammad. The motion urges the FRSC to embrace more technology in its enforcement strategies. Some of the suggested technologies include:
- Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) systems
- Automated Traffic Enforcement
- Advanced Data and Analytics Platforms
These tools will help modernize road safety efforts, making enforcement more efficient and effective in reducing traffic violations and road accidents.
What Does This Mean for Drivers?
The approval of this bill could lead to stricter enforcement of traffic laws, with armed FRSC officers now capable of responding to more serious incidents. Road users can expect a more disciplined approach to traffic control, as well as quicker responses to hazards and accidents. With the integration of technology, the FRSC will also be able to monitor and manage traffic violations more efficiently, improving overall safety on Nigeria’s roads.
Conclusion
The bill to arm the Federal Road Safety Corps is a significant step toward better road safety management in Nigeria. With lawmakers throwing their weight behind this initiative, we can expect more efficient traffic enforcement and improved safety for all road users.
