The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has underscored the urgency for its personnel to be equipped with firearms in light of the prevailing security challenges across Nigeria. The call was made by the Corps Marshal, Mr. Dauda Biu, during the inauguration of 1,762 corps personnel who completed a four-month basic course at the Nigerian Army Training Centre in Kontagora, Niger.
Biu, represented by Deputy Corps Marshal Shehu Zaki, emphasized the need for arming FRSC personnel to ensure their protection during duties, citing frequent attacks by road users and suspected criminals taking advantage of the country’s security challenges. He conveyed, “It is left to the political leaders to arm the FRSC, but what we do know is that the issue of the FRSC bearing arms has been on our status since 1992. What we are still waiting for is for us to be given the go-ahead to start using arms.”
The Corps Marshal highlighted the current security landscape in the country, asserting that considering the level of insecurity, it is reasonable for the FRSC to start using arms for self-defense when necessary. While urging the newly inaugurated personnel to be dedicated to their duties, Biu emphasized the importance of patriotism, discipline, honor, integrity, accountability, transparency, courtesy, confidentiality, decency, loyalty, and team spirit in achieving success.
Biu cautioned the personnel about the challenges they might face in the course of their duties and stressed the importance of adhering to regulations and work ethics. He thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for approving the use of the training facility and commended the army trainers for their contribution to the successful exercise.
The Camp Commander, Mr. Yakubu Muhammad, provided details on the composition of the commissioned personnel, including 204 cadet officers, 402 cadet marshal inspectors, and 1,156 road marshal assistants. Muhammad mentioned that the training covered road safety management, physical drills, and regimental ethics. He also noted the introduction of martial arts to enable personnel to defend themselves in the absence of authorized firearms.
Cadet Chime Martin, speaking on behalf of the commissioned cadets, pledged to utilize the knowledge acquired to create a safer motoring environment in the country. The FRSC’s call for arming personnel comes amid heightened security concerns, and the agency seeks official approval to carry firearms in the line of duty.
