N’Assembly Pledges Collaboration As FRSC Special Marshals Hold Annual Sectoral Workshop

OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos

Hon. David Zacharias, Chairman, House Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations has pledged the collaboration of the National Assembly to the Federal Road Safety Corps’ Special Marshals in their selfless contributions to safer roads and a more resilient society.

Hon. Zacharias made the pledge while making his presentation as a Guest of honour at the annual sectoral workshop of the group, held at the Ade Ajayi auditorium, University of Lagos, Akoka on Saturday.

He added that the gathering highlights a collective dedication to enhancing road safety and boosting the operational capabilities of the Special Marshals across the Country.

According to him, “Capacity building for our personnel is essential to enhancing their abilities and ensure optimal performance and would also like to use this occasion to commend the efforts of our special road marshals.

“You have continually been the supportive force, bridging gaps selflessly and using your own resources. May God bless you and continue to expand your horizons”. He added.

He emphasizes that the National Assembly, prioritizes the safety of Nigerians is and it must be a shared mission for all, while assuring the group that his office is always opened for collaboration, especially when it concerns safety.

Themed; ‘Enhancing Security and Safety Strategies for Special Marshals Operations’, the Lagos State Sector Commander, Kehinde Hamzat, in his paper, said the workshop is not just an annual event on their calendar, but a strategic platform for introspection, capacity development, and knowledge sharing.

“Through this gathering, we will evaluate our operational experiences, review our challenges, and strengthen our synergy towards achieving the Corps’ mission of creating a safe motoring environment in Nigeria.”

Stressing that the theme aptly caters for the emerging national security concerns, dynamic road safety challenges, and the need to ensure the safety of all personnel; both the regular and Special Marshals in the discharge of their duties.

While asserting that the operational environment of the FRSC has evolved significantly with the focus on reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities, he pointed out the need to contend with broader issues of insecurity, road rage, and the unpredictable behavior of some road users.

Hamzat cited several incidences where law enforcement and volunteer officers face threats, harassment, or even physical attacks in the line of duty. These experiences, according to him, underscore the urgent need for enhanced operational security and integrated safety measures to protect those who protect others.

Adding that the role of Special Marshals becomes even more critical, affirming that as responsible citizens voluntarily supporting the Corps, they represent not just an extension of Corps workforce, but the conscience of the motoring public, embodying leadership, discipline, and civic commitment.

“As ambassadors of safety, your influence extends beyond the highways. You shape public behavior, educate communities, and reinforce the message that road safety is a shared responsibility.” He said.

In his message to the gathering, Adaji Usman, the National Coordinator of the Special Marshals pointed out the need for the members to operate with heightened strategic awareness and vigilance.

“Your safety is paramount to the Corps, and this workshop represents a crucial step toward equipping you with the knowledge and strategies necessary to protect yourselves while you serve and safeguard the nation.” He said.

He stressed that though his leadership were recently constituted after the election held on September, he has taken far reaching steps to reposition and strengthen several core areas of the group’s operations, revealing that the
Special Marshals’ regalia will soon be upgraded to reflect a new, unified identity.

“This include; improved fabric quality, colour consistency, enhanced security PIN placement, and other features designed to prevent counterfeiting and preserve their integrity”. Usman said.

In his welcome address earlier, the Lagos State coordinator, Dr. Olabisi Dennis said the gathering is a reminder of their shared commitment to road safety and national service.

Saying, “As safety and security challenges evolve, we must equip ourselves with the new knowledge and strategies to protect our lives and enhance our operational efficiency”.