Abuja: The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced a partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other stakeholders to launch a campaign against illicit drug use by motorists across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This initiative is part of a broader effort to address road safety and environmental cleanliness.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the FRSC is also collaborating with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) to ensure cleanliness in motor parks nationwide. FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, emphasized the critical role of these efforts in supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Programmes. He expressed concern over the illegal trade and consumption of illicit drugs in motor parks and affirmed the agency’s commitment to withdrawing licenses from motorists caught using alcohol or illicit drugs.
Mohammed stated that the intake of illicit drugs endangers drivers and those around them, and reiterated the FRSC’s dedication to ensuring road safety. He noted the agency’s focus on strict enforcement and prosecution of traffic offenders to improve traffic management.
At the event, NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, represented by NDLEA FCT Commander Mr. Kabir Tsakuwa, urged commercial drivers to avoid illicit drugs, citing health hazards. Marwa highlighted the NDLEA’s commitment to eradicating illicit drugs and praised Jabi Park’s longstanding cooperation in maintaining a drug-free environment.
Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, voiced concerns over road accident fatalities linked to illicit drug use by drivers, particularly affecting young Nigerians. She urged transport union leaders to combat alcohol and drug use in motor parks.
NESREA Director General, Dr. Innocent Barikor, underscored the importance of maintaining cleanliness in motor parks to prevent vehicle damage and accidents. Mr. Gabriel Okeh, a leader of the Jabi Central Motor Park, expressed gratitude to the FRSC, NDLEA, NESREA, and other agencies for their efforts. He pledged the park’s support for government initiatives to improve road safety and environmental conditions.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the FRSC Corps Marshal, President of the Court of Appeal, and other stakeholders conducted inspections of kiosks and shops in the motor park, urging vendors to cease illicit commercial activities to save lives.