The Delta State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps has said there was reduction in fatality cases from road crashes in 2024 as compared to 2023.

The FRSC Sector Commander, Frederick Ogidan, made the disclosure on Friday at the end-of-year party organised by the command.

He said, “Our greatest achievement is that more lives were saved in 2024 compared to 2023. Our efforts led to a remarkable reduction/drop in fatalities from 93 to 53 (43.017 per cent). Casualties reduced from 478 to 445 (6.9 per cent) and an increase from 746 to 830 (11.26 per cent) in the number of people rescued alive. These are not just statistics; these are fathers, mothers, children–people who are alive today because of you. Your vigilance, enforcement and public enlightenment campaigns made a difference.’’

He, however, urged the officers of FRSC in the state not to be complacent, saying the journey ahead was long and that road safety was a battle they must fight every day.

He stated, “But for tonight, let us raise our glasses and toast to a year of impact, progress, and lives saved. It gives me immense joy to stand before you this day not for enforcement, not for an emergency, and certainly not to ask for your drivers’ licences. But to celebrate you our dedicated officers, special marshals, sister agencies, and partners, who have made 2024 a resounding success. Today is not about uniforms, ranks, or reports. It’s about us – the people behind the achievements and the hearts that kept pushing even when the days are tough. As the saying goes, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy-and in our case, a very stressed road safety officer!. So, let us take a moment to relax, reflect, and rejoice in the successes we have achieved together.’’

He noted that the success was not his alone, ascribing it to every officer, marshal, sister security agencies, and stakeholders, who played a role in making the roads safer.

Mr Ogidan stated, “Since assuming office, I have had the privilege of leading a team of dedicated officers, marshalls, and stakeholders who have poured their hearts into making Delta roads safer. We have witnessed improved operational efficiency and a higher level of staff motivation. The staff welfare scheme has been revived, ensuring better support for our personnel. Our once-troubled tow truck is now back in action, clearing obstructions and keeping our roads free-flowing. To the officers and marshals, your dedication does not go unnoticed; to our special marshals, your commitment is inspiring. To our partners and stakeholders, your support is invaluable.’’

(NAN)