By correspondent in Abuja.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has teamed up with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other key stakeholders to launch a nationwide campaign targeting illicit drug use by motorists across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In addition to addressing drugged driving, the FRSC is collaborating with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to ensure motor parks nationwide uphold proper cleanliness standards.
The FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, made the disclosure on Thursday while leading a team of government agency heads, along with the President of the Court of Appeal, on a sensitization campaign.
The event was held at the Jabi Central Motor Park in Abuja and aimed to raise awareness about road safety and the dangers of drug abuse among drivers.
Mohammed stressed that these efforts were aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Programmes, focusing on both safety and environmental cleanliness.
He expressed concerns about the illegal drug trade and consumption at motor parks, adding that the FRSC would continue to revoke the licenses of any motorists found using alcohol or illicit substances.
“The consumption of illicit drugs not only jeopardizes the drivers’ lives but also puts everyone else on the road at risk,” he warned. “We will persist until our roads are safer for all.”
The Corps Marshal promised that the FRSC would intensify enforcement and prosecution of traffic violators to ensure better traffic management this year.
The NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, represented by NDLEA FCT Commander,Mr. Kabir Tsakuwa, also urged commercial drivers to avoid using illicit drugs, noting the severe health risks they pose.
Marwa reiterated the agency’s commitment to eradicating drugs in Nigeria, with Jabi Park serving as a key partner in keeping the area free from drug sales and consumption.
Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, lamented the tragic loss of young lives in road accidents caused by drug use among commercial drivers.
She called on transport union leaders to actively support the campaign against alcohol and drug consumption at motor parks to restore order on the roads.
NESREA Director General, Dr. Innocent Barikor,stressed the importance of maintaining clean motor parks, adding that littering not only harms the environment but also contributes to vehicle damage and accidents.
In response, Mr. Gabriel Okeh, a leader of the Jabi Central Motor Park, thanked FRSC, NDLEA, NESREA, and supporting agencies, including NGOs, for bringing the campaign to the park and pledged the park’s full support for the government’s efforts to create a safer and cleaner environment.
Our correspondent reports that the FRSC Corps Marshal, the President of the Court of Appeal, and other stakeholders also conducted an inspection of the motor park’s kiosks and shops, urging vendors to cease illegal activities, including the sale of illicit drugs, to help protect lives.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
