UN, FG collaborate to reduce accidents, promote safer roads

By Sarafina Christopher

The United Nations (UN) Road Safety Trust Fund Implementation Partners is collaborating with the  Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to commence implementation of “safer streets for road users”.

This is aimed at curbing the rate of accidents and promoting safety on Nigeria roads.

The Executive Director of GreenLight Initiative, Mr Simon Obi, spoke  during a visit to the FCDA in Abuja on Friday.

Obi emphasised on the importance of involving the FCDA for the successful implementation of the project, especially in the Federal Capital Territory.

According to him, there is a need for government agencies, particularly in Abuja, to establish and promote policies for safer streets in collaboration with organisations such as the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO), and other security agencies.

Obi said the project aligned with the UN Global Road Safety Week and focused on sustainable transport, including walking, cycling, and public transportation, with the aim of creating safer streets for road users.

He also highlighted the global trend of transitioning to greener and healthier transportation modes and reducing reliance on cars.

“One of the tasks we were given is to reach out to the FCDA and other stakeholders.

“This is why we are here; we chose this particular day because of its significance.

‘The Committee was set up to implement a project called safer streets for road users in Nigeria,” he said.

Obi further stated that the project’s pilot phase was scheduled to take place in the city of Abuja.

“One of the things that came up during the different committee meetings is that we cannot be implementing a project of this magnitude without involving the landlord.

“Ours is the advocacy committee that is responsible to drive the advocacy component of the project, and one of the tasks we were given is to reach out to the FCDA and other stakeholders.

Also speaking, Mr. Jide Owatunmishe, representing the Institute of Driving Instructors of Nigeria, called for the implementation of policies that support  walking, cycling, and public transportation.

He emphasised the importance of government and citizens working together to combat corruption and ensure appropriate allocation of funds for economic growth and development

“This project will surely enable Nigerian road users reduce accident rate,” he added.

(NAN)