Nigeria Grapples With Rising Road Traffic Fatalities In 2025, FRSC Reports.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has revealed alarming statistics on road traffic incidents in Nigeria for the first half of 2025, highlighting a growing challenge to public safety. Between January and June, the country recorded 5,281 road traffic crashes, resulting in 2,838 deaths and 17,818 individuals rescued. These figures reflect a 3.9 per cent increase in crashes and a 2.2 per cent rise in fatalities compared to the same period in 2024, according to Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, who spoke at a press briefing in Abuja on 24 July 2025.
The surge in road incidents involved 39,793 people, marking an 8.9 per cent increase in the number of individuals affected compared to the previous year. Mohammed attributed the rise to heightened traffic volumes and pressure on Nigeria’s road infrastructure. Despite the grim statistics, he emphasised that the FRSC remains resilient, bolstering its efforts through enhanced enforcement and technological advancements. The corps recorded 290,887 arrests for 319,798 traffic offences during this period, a 16 per cent increase in arrests and a 14.9 per cent rise in recorded violations compared to 2024, reflecting heightened vigilance.
Particular concern was raised about high-risk corridors, such as the Jos-Lafia-Makurdi route, which alone accounted for a significant portion of fatalities. Human errors, including speeding, reckless overtaking, and driving under the influence, were identified as primary causes, exacerbated by deteriorating road conditions and inadequate signage. The rainy season, with its poor visibility and damaged roads, has further heightened risks, prompting calls for urgent action.
In response, the FRSC has introduced measures to curb the crisis. The National Crash Reporting Information System and the FRSC Mobile App have improved data collection and public engagement, enabling faster emergency responses and verification of vehicle documents. Additionally, a recent House of Representatives bill, passed on 22 July 2025, aims to amend the FRSC Establishment Act to enhance traffic management and improve staff welfare, including the creation of a Health Management Office for personnel.
Mohammed also highlighted Nigeria’s growing influence in regional road safety, with the FRSC serving as the Permanent Secretariat for the West African Road Safety Organisation and recently being elected to host the African Association of Lead Agencies in Road Safety Management. These achievements, he noted, underscore the corps’ commitment to reducing road traffic deaths in line with the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety, which targets a 50 per cent reduction by 2030.
Road safety advocates have urged for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, immediate road repairs, and community-level awareness campaigns to reverse the rising tide of fatalities. Experts warn that without coordinated action, the situation could worsen, particularly as the rainy season continues to challenge drivers. The FRSC has called on all stakeholders, including government agencies, communities, and drivers, to take responsibility for safer roads, stressing that road safety is a collective effort.
As Nigeria confronts this national emergency, the FRSC remains steadfast in its mission to protect lives, with Mohammed asserting, “The Corps is not overwhelmed. We are rising to meet this challenge with professionalism and innovation.”
