The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Why we recorded a spike in road traffic crashes in December/January – FRSC 

    Why we recorded a spike in road traffic crashes in December/January – FRSC 

    …597 deaths recorded in 687 accidents

    Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed said risky road user behaviour was largely responsible for the 3.4 per cent increase in road traffic crashes recorded during the festive season, from 15 December 2025 to 15 January 2026. 

    Speaking on Monday in Abuja during a press briefing on the Operation Zero 2025 festive season, comparing the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 operations, the FRSC boss said crash data revealed an increase across all major indices.

    Mohammed disclosed that total road traffic crashes rose from 665 in 2024/2025 to 687 in 2025/2026, representing a 3.4 percent increase. 

    He said, “The number of persons involved increased from 5,761 to 5,942, while fatalities rose from 571 to 597, a 4.2 percent increase. Injuries also increased from 2,462 to 2,522.” 

    “Those rescued without injury rose from 2,697 to 2,792, reflecting improved rescue and emergency response outcomes. 

    “The figures demonstrate that while interventions saved lives, risky road user behaviour continued to undermine safety during peak travel periods.”

    According to the FRSC boss, analysis of Operation Zero 2025/2026 showed that the most severe crashes were concentrated along key interstate and peri-urban corridors, with several single-incident crashes resulting in multiple casualties.

    He said, “Locations such as Benin-Asaba-Awka recorded 17 injured and 12 deaths; Zuba-Kaduna-Zaria recorded 67 injured and 39 deaths; while Jos-Bauchi,Gombe-Bauchi-Darazo-Potiskum claimed 49 lives, Abuja-Lokoja, 28 deaths, Mai Adua-Daura-Kazaure-Dambata 18 deaths, and Enugu-Umuahia-Aba recorded 11 fatalities.” 

    Mohammed revealed that the largely avoidable crashes were primarily caused by speeding, dangerous overtaking, loss of control, tyre burst and brake failure—clear indicators of reckless driving and poor vehicle condition.

    He said in December 2025 alone, the FCT Metropolis corridor recorded 97 crashes, followed by Zuba–Kaduna–Zaria with 86 crashes, and Lafia–Akwanga–Keffi–Goshen with 80 crashes. 

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    He added that the same corridors also accounted for the highest fatality burden, justifying sustained patrol dominance, speed enforcement and targeted intervention along high-risk routes.

    The FRSC boss said analysis also reveals that Zone RS4 Jos recorded the highest severity index at 0.18 and accounted for 11.4 percent of total crashes in December 2025, indicating a disproportionate fatality to crash ratio requiring sustained operational focus.

    He said: “Temporal analysis further shows that 87% of crashes occurred between 0600hrs and 1959hrs, with a pronounced peak between 1200hrs and 1359hrs, while Wednesdays recorded the highest crash frequency.”

    “Causation analysis remains unequivocal. Speed limit violation accounted for 41 percent of all identified causes of road traffic crashes in December 2025.”

    “Speed remains the single greatest threat to life on Nigerian roads. The data is clear: speed kills, indiscipline sustains crashes, and disciplined enforcement saves lives.”

    While giving January to December 2025 statistics, Mohammed also revealed that a comparative analysis of 2024 and 2025 crash data shows that total crashes increased by 9.2 percent from 9,570 to 10,446. 

    He said that in 2024, fatal crashes which were 2,532 rose to 2,608 in 2025 representing 3.0 percent, serious crashes by 10.5 percent that is from 6,131 in 2024 to 6,772 in 2025 and minor crashes from 907 to 1,066 signifying 17.5 percent increase. 

    The FRSC boss reported that the number of persons injured increased from 31,154 to 33,400 which is a 7.2 percent rise, and the number of people involved increased by 8.0 percent.

    He also reported that the number of persons killed declined from 5,421 to 5,289, representing a 2.4 percent reduction, hence the reduction confirms that post-crash response interventions are working, it fell short of the Corps’ strategic target of a 10% fatality reduction and confirms that the challenge before us is no longer response alone, but prevention, compliance and deterrence.

    He said in 2025, the Corps recorded a significant rise in enforcement activities compared to 2024. 

    “The number of offenders arrested increased from 453,304 in 2024 to 581,332 in 2025, representing an increase of 128,028 arrests, which translates to a 28.3% rise. Similarly, offences booked rose from 496,799 in 2024 to 648,918 in 2025, an increase of 152,119 offences, amounting to a 30.6% increase,” he said.  

    Mohammed said the upward trend reflects intensified patrol operations, improved surveillance, and a more robust enforcement strategy aimed at promoting road discipline and enhancing overall safety on Nigerian roads.

    He revealed that in comparison of 2024 and 2025 passenger and vehicular movement reveals steady growth, with passenger traffic rising from 45.16 million in 2024 to 47.47 million, representing a 2.54% increase; vehicles traveled also increased from 3.65 million to 3.74 million signifying a 1.25% difference; luxury bus operations expanded from 26,728 trips to 29,844 trips, a 5.51% difference; and total kilometres covered growing significantly from 4.07 billion kilometres to 4.88 billion kilometres, reflecting a 9.05% difference.

    The data, he said, confirms that both vehicle and persons travelled increased significantly in 2025, leading to higher vehicle volumes, mobility and economic activity. 

    He said despite the increased exposure, fatalities declined by 2.4 percent, meaning 132 lives were saved compared to 2024, hence the target of the corps was to reduce fatalities by 10 percent by 2025.

    He said the increase in injuries reflects higher crash occurrence alongside improved postcrash survival and rescue outcomes, hence, success was measured not only by targets but by lives preserved while enforcement and emergency response interventions were working, but they must now be intensified.

    Mohammed who revealed his policy directive on reversing the rising trend of road traffic crashes noted that the corps was dealing with a crisis of exposure, weak compliance, declining deterrence and persistent indiscipline, not an absence of laws or awareness. 

  • We won’t lose focus on governance despite our situation, says Fubara

    We won’t lose focus on governance despite our situation, says Fubara

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has vowed to keep his focus on governance despite the ongoing political turbulence in the state.

    Fubara spoke on Wednesday shortly after inspecting the ongoing construction of the Borokiri and Creek market at the Town Area of Port Harcourt.

    The governor said he had promised the people of the state that he would continue to deliver on the mandate they had given to him.

    Fubara, who was cheered by crowd of residents, said rhe little he owed the people was to give them confidence in his administration.

    He said, “I promise our people that no matter the situation we are in, we will not loose focus on governance because our people have given us this trust and the little we owe them is to give them confidence in leadership and ensuring that governance continues strongly.”

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    The governor said the project was part of efforts of his administration to restore the beauty of the Town area of Port Harcourt and stop people from trading along the road.

    He said, “You are aware that sometime last year I visited this place and I did promise that because we want to bring back the beauty of town to its old ambiance that the issue of people trading along the Creek Road and also in most of the major streets in town that there will be the need to fix the market. 

    “So, I went to check the ongoing projects that have to do with roads and after that I am here to see for myself what is going on in the market. 

    “From what you can see the contractor has already mobilised to site and I believe that in the next one week the project will commence. 

    “What are we trying to do? You can see the difficulty driving through the Creek Road and what is happening there? Because we don’t have good settlement for market. So if we fix this market those trading along the streets will vacate and will be inside the market. When they are inside the road can be properly fixed and the beauty of the town will start reflecting.

    “I mentioned that the roads were part of what we are doing. We are not fixing the market. We have to fix the market so that the people along the road will move in. The road rehabilitation is from Boriki down to every part of Port Harcourt township to ensure that the roads are properly fixed.”

  • JUST IN: Two Taraba senators dump PDP for APC

    JUST IN: Two Taraba senators dump PDP for APC

    Two senators representing Taraba State on Wednesday officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the defections during plenary after reading letters submitted by the lawmakers.

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    The senators, Haruna Manu and Issa Shuaibu Lau, in separate letters read by Akpabio, attributed their decision to extensive consultations, internal crises within the PDP, and their determination to better serve their constituents.

    Akpabio subsequently confirmed their defection and directed the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, to formally receive the lawmakers into the APC, a development that further reshapes the political composition of the 10th Senate.

    The defections followed the recent move by Taraba State Governor, Kefas Agbu, who formally left the PDP for the APC last Saturday.

  • World Cancer Day: First Lady calls for people-centred care, early detection

    World Cancer Day: First Lady calls for people-centred care, early detection

    … says stronger response must be rooted in prevention, access to quality treatment

    …urges Nigerians to unite voices and actions for cancer-free future

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called for a stronger and more compassionate response to cancer, urging Nigerians to place people at the centre of care by listening to individual stories and recognising that every cancer journey is different.

    In a message to mark World Cancer Day 2026, observed on February 4 with the theme “UnitedByUnique,” the First Lady said building an effective national response to cancer requires empathy, prevention, and sustained support systems for patients and families.

    “By listening to individual stories and placing people at the centre of care, we can build a stronger, more compassionate response to cancer,” she said.

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    According to her, such a response must be “rooted in prevention, early detection, access to quality treatment, and sustained support,” stressing that these pillars remain essential to reducing cancer-related deaths and improving outcomes across the country.

    Senator Tinubu also emphasised the need for collective action, saying progress will depend on a shared commitment by government, health professionals, civil society, families and communities.

    “Together, by uniting our voices and actions, we can move closer to a cancer-free future for all,” she said.

    She noted that the World Cancer Day theme serves as a reminder that while cancer affects individuals in unique ways, the hope for healing and survival is common to all.

    “Every cancer journey is different, yet our hope is shared,” the First Lady said.

    World Cancer Day is observed globally every February 4 to raise awareness about cancer, promote prevention, encourage early detection, and support efforts to improve treatment and care for patients.

  • West Africa’s security hinges on strategic partnerships – COAS 

    West Africa’s security hinges on strategic partnerships – COAS 

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said Nigeria’s defence partnership with France remains critical to the country’s broader efforts to counter security threats in the West African region.

    General Shaibu said this on Wednesday when he engaged the French Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Colonel Stéphane Useo, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.

    In a statement by the Army spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the high-level engagement focused on strengthening operational cooperation between the Nigerian Army and the French Armed Forces in response to evolving regional and global security challenges.

    The COAS commended France for its continued collaboration with the Nigerian Army, particularly in the areas of intelligence sharing, professional military training and support for operational readiness. 

    He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to continuous professional development across all corps and emphasized the importance of sustaining mutually beneficial bilateral defence cooperation with Nigeria allies. 

    The Army Chief expressed optimism that a long-term partnership with France with focus on capacity building, advanced training and enhanced operational effectiveness is in line with contemporary security realities.

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    The French Defence Attaché praised the resilience and dedication of the Nigerian Army in dealing with emerging security challenges. 

    Colonel Useo particularly commended the Army’s successful recovery operations in the Republic of Benin and advocated expanded access to strategic professional military courses especially in the area of Public Relations and Aviation. 

    He described the Nigerian Army School of Public Relations and Information as one of the best institutions in Africa, established to train army personnel in civil-military affairs and enhance information and communication management.

    Colonel Useo reiterated France’s commitment to deepening defence cooperation with Nigeria, emphasizing shared responsibility in promoting regional stability, countering emerging threats and building sustainable military capacity. 

    He described the partnership as mutually reinforcing, enhancing the defence capabilities and professional standards of both nations. 

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu in a handshake with the French Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Colonel Stéphane Useo, during their engagement at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, on Wednesday. 

  • Body of missing Kogi FCE student found

    Body of missing Kogi FCE student found

    Residents of Eika-Adagu Community, Lokoja, Kogi State have found the body of a 20-year-old  lady in the area.

    The body was dumped on the Lokoja/ Okene highway.

    Her vital organs were said to be missing, raising concern that the victim was a victim of ritual killing.

    Residents said the body was that of a student of Federal College of Education, Okene who was reported missing on January 24, this year.

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     Family, friends, and the college community added that they had been searching for her since.

    The body was taken by the police to Okengwe General Hospital morgue for autopsy and preservation.

    Some of the neighbours, who spoke on condition of anonymity, alleged that bodies of  two commercial cyclists(okada operators) were recently found in the area with their vital organs also missing.

    The spokesman for the state Police Command, Ayisatu Saidu, has not responded to enquiries about the incident.

  • NAPTIP arrests four suspects, rescues 17 victims in Onitsha hotel

    NAPTIP arrests four suspects, rescues 17 victims in Onitsha hotel

    • By Precious Igbonwelundu and Elekwachi Chinedum, Onitsha

    The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has arrested four suspected human traffickers and rescued 17 victims during a raid on a popular hotel in the 33 Area of Onitsha, Anambra State.

    The operation, carried out with support from the military, followed credible intelligence indicating the presence of underage girls at the facility. Two additional suspects linked to alleged baby trafficking in the South East were also apprehended.

    NAPTIP said four of the rescued victims tested positive for HIV and are receiving counselling and care from the agency, with support from volunteers of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA).

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    Investigations showed that residents had raised concerns about suspicious activities at the hotel, including the frequent influx of men and the presence of underage girls. The victims reportedly said they were recruited from Benue, Imo, Ebonyi and Akwa Ibom states and trafficked to Onitsha for prostitution, with daily remittances demanded by their handlers.

    NAPTIP Director-General, Binta Adamu Bello, expressed concern over the victims’ plight, particularly their health condition. She thanked the military and the Gender and Human Rights State Response Team under ANSACA for their collaboration.

    Bello said NAPTIP had launched a manhunt for the alleged “madam” who confiscated antiretroviral drugs given to the victims and barred them from accessing medical care, describing the act as criminal. She added that the owner of the hotel had been invited for interrogation as investigations continue.

    The Director-General reiterated the agency’s commitment to intensifying efforts against human trafficking nationwide.

  • Navy hands over seized substances in Apapa drug raid to NDLEA

    Navy hands over seized substances in Apapa drug raid to NDLEA

    The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT has handed over illicit drugs, including Marijuana and Codeine, which it recovered when it raided a suspected criminals’ hideout at Gidan Drama, Agbo Malu area of Apapa, Lagos to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

    The drugs, it said, were recovered on January 24, following credible intelligence on the presence of suspected drug peddlers in the area.

    A statement yesterday said the seized illicit substances were handed over by the Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, Rear Admiral Paul Nimmyel.

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    Represented by the Base’ Executive Officer, Captain Idongesit Udoessien, Nimmyel said no arrests were made as the suspects fled on sighting naval personnel.

    He said the recovery reflects the Navy’s resolve to curb the spread and abuse of illicit drugs among youths, noting the attendant health risks and security implications.

    The Commander added that the operation aligned with the directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, for the Navy to rid the maritime environment of criminal activities, working independently or in collaboration with other agencies.

  • Muslim fanatics burn shrines in Auchi

    Muslim fanatics burn shrines in Auchi

    Religious crisis is looming in Auchi, headquarters of Etsako West Local Government, over the destruction of the Orle River water goddess shrines.

    The water goddess is regarded by adherents as a giver of life, wealth and protection of their well-being.

    A video shows the shrines being destroyed by some youths who recited passages from the Qu’ ran.

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    They said they didn’t want idol worshippers in Auchi.

    One of the adherents in another video, said: “They have destroyed our beautiful mother. They destroyed our place of worship. Our beautiful mother, who gave us everything has been destroyed.”

    A chief in the Auchi kingdom, Durham Yusuf, said the idol worshippers were polluting the river.

    “We don’t have any problem with them. We don’t want them to pollute the river. They can practise their religion in their house.

    “The river is the problem. We do not believe there is any goddess there. We are Muslims,” he explained.

  • Army prioritises troop welfare, cautions personnel against substance abuse

    Army prioritises troop welfare, cautions personnel against substance abuse

    The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of its personnel and cautioned officers and soldiers against substance abuse and other negative vices,

    It spoke at the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 at AN Barracks, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos. where personnel of the Combat Service Support Corps comprising Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, Nigerian Army Medical Corps, Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, Nigerian Army Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering and Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management (NACOLM)  gathered.

    The event, which drew senior officers, soldiers, families and guests, featured cultural performances by the Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo dance troupe, awards presentation to outstanding soldiers across various Corps, an inter-Corps tug of war contest as well as donations to 20 widows, reinforcing the Army’s focus on inclusiveness and support for families of fallen personnel.

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen Waidi Shaibu, noted that 2025 had been particularly demanding for the Army, with troops, especially combat service support and logistics personnel, engaged in counter terrorism, counter insurgency and internal security operations across the country and beyond.

    The Army Chief, who was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 81 Division, Maj Gen Adebayo Babalola, reiterated that the Army remained committed to the welfare and well-being of its personnel and their families, stressing that while much had been entrusted to officers and soldiers, high standards of discipline, professionalism and loyalty were expected in return.

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    He urged personnel to avoid conduct contrary to military professionalism, particularly substance abuse, and encouraged them to sustain their commitment as the Army prepares for another demanding operational year.

    According to him, the WASA tradition, which dates back to the era of the West African Frontier Force, provides a platform for officers and soldiers to unwind, celebrate achievements of the year and strengthen bonds with their families and host communities, while preparing mentally and socially for future responsibilities.

    Earlier, the Acting Commander, Corps of Medical, Combat Service Support Corps, Brig.-Gen Innocent Enwuchola, described WASA as an enduring tradition of the Nigerian Army that reinforces discipline, esprit de corps and unity among personnel, their families and host communities.

    Brig–Gen Enwuchola said the WASA celebration provided a rare opportunity for officers and soldiers to unwind, socialise and reflect on the successes recorded during the year, while also rewarding deserving personnel for professionalism and dedication to duty.

    He commended personnel of the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, Nigerian Army Medical Corps, Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, Nigerian Army Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, as well as the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management, for their critical roles in sustaining military operations across the country.

    According to him, combat service support formations had continued to provide essential logistics, medical, technical and administrative support to operations in the North East, North West, North Central, South South, South East and South West, noting that these efforts had boosted troop confidence and contributed to the protection of lives and property.

    He also highlighted the role of NACOLM in training and developing officers in military logistics, administration and management, saying the institution had enhanced leadership capacity, planning, resource allocation and decision making within the Nigerian Army.

    The celebration ended with goodwill messages and renewed commitment to professionalism as the Nigerian Army prepares for the 2026 operational year.