Enugu To Lead Nigeria In Crash-Free Highways, Gov. Mbah Vows

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has pledged that the state will spearhead Nigeria’s drive for crash-free highways through fully funded joint operations, technological upgrades including AI-powered surveillance cameras and community town halls to enforce road safety compliance.

Governor Mbah made the declaration while addressing the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) 2025 Enugu Sectoral Workshop for Special Marshals and the Investiture of Honourary Special Marshals in Enugu. The workshop carried the theme: “Enhancing Security and Safety Strategies for Special Marshals Operations.”

Represented by the state’s Commissioner for Special Duties, Chief Sunday Ajogwu, the governor highlighted that ongoing reconstruction of over 1,000 kilometres of roads has already reduced accidents by 25 per cent on key corridors, including the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. He stressed that transportation safety is not just a technical concern but a moral imperative.

“I have pledged, and will continue to deliver, unwavering support to FRSC initiatives, ranging from legislative backing for stricter enforcement to providing state-of-the-art patrol vehicles and tech-driven surveillance through our Enugu Security Trust Fund,” Mbah said. He also commended the FRSC Enugu State Command for the organisation of the workshop and expressed gratitude to the Corps Marshal for selecting Enugu, the heartbeat of the South-East, to host the pivotal event.

The Sector Commander of FRSC Enugu State, Mr Franklin Agbakoba, described the Special Marshal Scheme as the foundation of public partnership in the corps. Special marshals, he said, serve as FRSC ambassadors in their communities and professional fields, providing voluntary road safety services—a testament to citizenship and public service.

“The corps leadership, under the guidance of the Corps Marshal, values the contributions of the Special Marshals highly. This workshop is a clear demonstration of that commitment,” Agbakoba added.

The National Coordinator of Special Marshals, Mr Usman Adaji, who was represented by the body’s National Secretary, Mr Friday Ekhator, observed a minute of silence for special marshals who lost their lives in voluntary service nationwide. He emphasised that the workshop aimed to improve operational effectiveness through training on risk mitigation, personal protective protocols, and emergency response.

Among the new Honourary Special Marshals, Chief Kingsley Ede commended the FRSC for creating a platform that allows citizens to contribute to national road safety and societal improvement. Dr Oscar Bernards, another inductee, reaffirmed his commitment to promoting road safety and serving as a catalyst for societal upliftment.