Safety
By Aminu Garko
Kano, The Kano State Government is collaborating with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to improve road safety to protect lives and property in the state.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Director, Public Enlightenment, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Balarabe Kiru on Thursday in Kano.
He quoted Gov. Abba Yusuf as emphasising this commitment at a town hall meeting, highlighting initiatives such as solar traffic lights, street lights, and road rehabilitation.
Represented by theCommissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Adamu Kibiya, Yusuf said the administration has been supporting road safety through infrastructural development and traffic control mechanisms.
The event, themed _Take Responsibility for Your Safety’, was aimed at addressing the rising road traffic incidents during the ember months.
The Governor, therefore, urged motorists and other road users to avoid speeding, over loading, phone distractions and night driving when necessary.
He further commended the management of Federal Road Safety Corps, Kano State Command, for the remarkable initiative and dedication shown in ensuring road safety across the state.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor, also a former Corps Marshal, Dr Danyaro Yakasai, explained that even though statistics indicated sharp reduction in road accidents, there was the urgent need to define the category of some vehicles like “KEKE-NAPEP” as drivers or road riders.
According to him, research has shown that most of the distractions come from these categories of drivers or riders, adding,” it is high time to correct this situation and put things in to order.”
Earlier, the Sector Commander, FRSC, Kano command, Idris Lawal, explained that this year’s campaign was aimed at awakening public consciousness on the dangers of distractions behind the wheel and promoting a culture of safe driving among all road users.
“ Data from previous years shows that over 90 per cent of road traffic crashes nationwide are caused by human factors such as excessive speed, impatience, fatigue, and distracted driving, most of these incidents are preventable,” he said.
Lawal further cautioned that distracted driving caused by phone use, eating while driving, engaging in deep conversations, or operating in vehicles gadgets usually divert attention from road and increase risk of fatal crashes.
Lawan urged all motorists to adhere strictly to safety rules and take precautions while driving as festive season approaches.
The commander appreciated Yusuf for his continued support to FRSC and commitment to ensure safety and orderliness on Kano roads.
Others who spoke at the event included the representative of the sister security agencies such as Police, Nigeria Army, NCS, NSCDC, transport unions and associations.
The event was aimed at addressing the rising road traffic incidents during the ember months, emphasising the importance of individual responsibility for road safety.
