Yusuf Suberu, representative of NGOs and CSOs, United Nations Decade of Action on Injury Prevention, has tasked governments to implement a multi-sectoral strategy integrating transport, police, health, and education for safer roads, vehicles, and users.

Mr Suberu made the call in a statement to commemorate the 2024 World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Crashes victims on Monday in Abuja.

Mr Suberu, who lamented that youth were disproportionately affected, said road accidents were the leading cause of death for young people globally.

He noted that the day had become essential in global efforts to prevent road accident deaths, emphasising the need for holistic government approaches.

He said, “Accidents, as an unfortunate event, negatively impact the families emotionally and economically.”

According to him, most of the victims are youths and males. 

The effect on the country is enormous as, many times, it pushes the families into a struggle for economic survival

“This year’s date is Sunday, November 17. It aims to remind governments and individual members of society of their responsibility to make roads safer. It is a high-profile global event to remember the many millions who have been killed and seriously injured in road accidents.

“We believe injuries due to traffic accidents can be prevented. There is a need for a holistic approach by governments to address road safety holistically. Involvement from multiple sectors, such as transport, police, health, and education, is required and necessary to enact measures that address the safety of roads, vehicles, and road users,” Mr Suberu explained.

Mr Suberu lamented that deaths and injuries due to traffic accidents were sudden and traumatic events, adding that the impact was long-lasting.

He urged stakeholders to promote responsible driving and reduce road casualties while emphasising the need for collective action to prevent road accidents.

(NAN)