The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) and Prudential Zenith Life Insurance(PZL) have unveiled the Safe Steps Road Safety Campaign aimed at tackling the rising road traffic crashes and promoting safety.
Dr Emmanuel Bassi, Managing Director of NRCS, said on Wednesday in Abuja during the unveiling event that the initiative was a critical step towards public enlightenment and capacity building.
“Our objective is to educate road users, transport unions and drivers on road safety and first aid.
“Starting in Lagos and Abuja, we aim to reduce accidents and improve motorists’ behaviour during the six-month campaign.”
According to him, the campaign will include basic first aid training for drivers and other road users, ensuring they can respond effectively to emergencies before professional help arrives.
“First aid is crucial for preserving life and preventing further harm in the aftermath of accidents.’’
Highlighting the global significance of road safety, Bassi cited the 2023 Global Status Report, which stated that road traffic injuries were among the top causes of death worldwide, claiming more than 2 million lives annually.
“The Safe Steps Road Safety Campaign seeks to address this crisis through public awareness, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building.
“The six-month campaign will run from January to June 2025 with extensive outreach efforts and financial investment.
“We want to see a drastic reduction in road accidents and improved behaviour among motorists,” he said.
Speaking, Corp. Commander Danladi Akpagi of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), stressed that working with like-minded organisations was a key strategic goal for 2025.
Akpagi said that road crashes were preventable but negligence by road users often plays a major role.
He urged road users to take responsibility for their actions behind the wheel, warning that accidents could happen to anyone.
Also, Mr Cherise Ige, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, PZL, said that the campaign aligned with the company’s mission to improve the lives of Nigerians.
“As a life insurance company, we witness the devastating impact of road crashes daily; this campaign aims to reduce fatalities and foster safer communities,” he said.
Ige also highlighted PZL’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, including partnerships with government agencies to advance road safety.