The Federal Road Safety Corps, Rivers Sector Command (FRSC), on Friday commemorated the 2026 West African Road Safety Organization Day (WARSO Day) in Port Harcourt, with renewed calls for motorists and other road users to adopt safer driving habits in order to reduce road crashes and fatalities across the country.

The event, which was held under the theme, “From Ratification to Action: Implementing the African Road Safety Charter in Nigeria,” brought together road safety officials, invited guests, transport stakeholders, and members of the public to deliberate on strategies for improving road safety practices.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Zonal Commander of Zone 6, Assistant Corps Marshal Henry Benamesia, who was represented by the Zonal Head of Operations, Corps Commander Joseph Abuo, highlighted the significance of WARSO Day in promoting road safety consciousness within Nigeria and across West Africa.

He noted that the FRSC remained committed to the realization of the objectives of WARSO, especially through sustained awareness campaigns, enforcement of traffic regulations, and strategic interventions aimed at reducing road traffic crashes.

According to him, the commemoration aligns with the Corps’ 2026 Strategic Goal 1, which targets a 10 per cent reduction in road traffic fatalities and injuries through data-driven interventions.

In his welcome address, the Rivers Sector Commander, Corps Commander Francis A. Ajatta, urged motorists to avoid dangerous driving practices and embrace defensive driving at all times.

Ajatta, while welcoming guests, officers, and men of the Corps, explained the importance of WARSO Day and stressed the need for collective responsibility in ensuring safer roads.

The highlight of the event was a lecture delivered by Chief Route Commander Samuel A. Mmerimeku, who focused on the theme of the celebration and emphasized practical steps needed to implement the African Road Safety Charter in Nigeria.

Mmerimeku advised motorists and road users to respect traffic laws and constituted authorities, maintain roadworthy vehicles, avoid overloading, and shun reckless driving habits.

He also warned against fatigue and unsafe long-distance driving, urging drivers to always get adequate rest before embarking on journeys.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility. No trip is successful unless everyone arrives alive,” he stated.

Questions raised by invited guests during the interactive session were addressed by the Deputy Corps Commander, Public Relations and Strategy, AO Farinloye.

The event ended with participants reaffirming their commitment to promoting safer road practices and supporting initiatives aimed at reducing accidents on Nigerian roads.