By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Nasarawa State has announced a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to transform motorists’ behaviour and drastically reduce road crashes across the state.
Nasarawa State FRSC Sector Commander, Yahaya Sabo-Adikwu, made this known when the NUJ State Executive Council paid him a familiarisation visit in Lafia.
Sabo-Adikwu expressed concern that many motorists consistently ignore traffic regulations, stressing that the time has come to change their orientation through sustained sensitisation and strict enforcement of traffic laws.
He noted that under his leadership, the Corps has taken up the challenge of reshaping motorists’ mindset to understand that adhering to traffic rules is for their own safety and wellbeing.
According to him, the FRSC has expanded its advocacy campaign to churches, mosques, markets, motor parks, and media platforms.
“We will take the advocacy to traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, motorists, unions, and stakeholders in all the 13 local government areas of the state,” he said.
In an unprecedented move, Sabo-Adikwu revealed that the Corps will, for the first time, hold a ceremony to celebrate and reward drivers who consistently obey traffic rules.
“Those who qualify will be handsomely rewarded in cash and kind to encourage others,” he stated.
He described driving as a noble profession, not a job for thugs or irresponsible persons, adding that drivers play a crucial role in society and deserve recognition that will encourage responsible conduct.
The Sector Commander explained that rewarding compliant drivers would help discourage drug abuse and other behaviours that contribute to reckless driving. The maiden drivers’ awards ceremony, he said, will be held in collaboration with the Nasarawa State Government, the Traditional Council, and other key stakeholders.
Sabo-Adikwu assured the NUJ of his readiness to partner closely with journalists to reorient motorists and promote safe driving culture across the state. He pledged to celebrate drivers who have shown exemplary conduct throughout their careers.
Earlier, the NUJ Chairman, Salihu Mohammed-Alkali, congratulated Sabo-Adikwu for becoming the first indigenous Sector Commander to lead the FRSC in Nasarawa. He pledged the union’s full support in publicising FRSC activities aimed at reducing traffic crashes.
The FRSC-NUJ partnership is expected to strengthen public awareness campaigns, improve driver behaviour, and foster a safer road environment across Nasarawa State.