By Isaiah Eka
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has solicited the collaboration of all stakeholders to ensure safety and security on Nigerian roads.
The FRSC Sector Commander, Akwa Ibom Command, Mr Francis Ajatta, said this on Saturday during the 2025 Special Marshals Sectoral Workshop in Uyo.
Our Correspondent reports that the theme of the workshop is; “Enhancing Security and Safety Strategies for Special Marshals Operations.”
Ajatta said that the role of special marshals in promoting safety and order on the roads could not be overemphasised.
He said as volunteers and ambassadors of road safety, the special marshals roles and efforts, advocacy, public enlightenment, enforcement and operational support complement the work of the regular marshals.
The sector commander said that there was a need for security agencies to work in collaboration with the special and regular marshals to address safety and security challenges on the roads.
He said the theme of the workshop was apt, as it would enable the special marshals to be retrained on strategies to serve the nation better as volunteers.
“This workshop, as we all know, is a statutory programme of the FRSC designed to create a platform for improved knowledge, competence, and operational effectiveness of our Special Marshals.
“In an era of growing security and safety challenges, the work of Special Marshals has become not only critical but challenging, hence, this year’s theme is both timely and strategic.
“We must recognise that security and safety are inseparable pillars of effective road management.
“Road crashes, insecurity, and other threats to road safety require proactive strategies and collaboration among all stakeholders.
“Together, we can build safer roads and save more lives,” Ajatta said.
In his remarks, the National Coordinator, Special Marshals, Mr Adaji Usman, emphasised on the need for discipline, adherence to guidelines, and operational integrity among special marshals.
Usman added that plans were underway to upgrade the special marshals’ regalia and improve welfare packages.
He urged special marshals to share their ideas, suggestions, and observations to strengthen the collective mission.
Prof. Aniekan Brown, speaking on the theme, “Enhancing Security and Safety Strategies for Special Marshals Operations”, highlighted some challenges facing special marshals to include; banditry, kidnapping, and aggressive drivers.
Brown, a Professor of Criminology at the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of Uyo, emphasised on the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and situational awareness in ensuring safety and security by the special marshals.
He urged special marshals to ensure proper documentation and learning from experiences to improve safety and security.
“No marshal should operate alone, approach every driver with courtesy and clarity.
“Your safety is greater than your ego. Communicate firmly but calmly while on the road.
“Your vest is not just reflective.
It reflects courage, duty, and sacrifice to the nation,” Brown said.
Brown called for regular tactical training of special marshals to equip them with skills and knowledge serve the people with ease.
