FRSC urges Special Marshals to prioritise personal safety while promoting road safety
The Deputy Corps Marshal, Special Duties and External Relations of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Pauline Olaye, has advised special marshals in Bauchi State to prioritise their personal safety while performing voluntary traffic duties.
Speaking at a one-day capacity-building workshop for special marshals held in Bauchi on Saturday, Olaye expressed concern that some volunteers had been injured or knocked down while advocating safety for other road users.
She noted that FRSC personnel continue to face difficult conditions such as highway insecurity, low public awareness, misinformation, and the increasing risks associated with road traffic control.
“It is impossible to promote safety while operating in unsafe conditions. Safeguarding our Special Marshals during field operations is not only necessary but critical,” she said.
Represented by the Zonal Commanding Officer, RS12 Bauchi, Yakubu Mohammed, Olaye urged the volunteers to carefully assess their environment before stepping onto the road.
“Some drivers may have visual impairments or may be under the influence of substances. Do not confront oncoming vehicles directly. Your safety comes first,” she cautioned.
Also speaking, the Zonal Commanding Officer, Yakubu Mohammed, described the special marshals as individuals of proven character who willingly invest their time, resources, and commitment to ensuring safer roads.
“Your contribution is invaluable,” he stated.
Mohammed highlighted the global burden of road crashes, noting that they cause about 1.3 million preventable deaths and 50 million injuries annually, making them the leading cause of death among children and young adults.
He revealed that Bauchi State recorded 283 road traffic crashes in 2024, resulting in 152 deaths and 1,402 injuries.
“These fatalities are avoidable and unacceptable. We must continue to work towards safer roads. But before we make the roads safe for others, we must ensure we are safe ourselves,” he added.