The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has teamed up with the Anambra and Delta State Commands of the Nigeria Police Force to tackle the notorious traffic gridlock on the Onitsha-Asaba corridor during the festive season. The initiative aims to ensure smooth vehicular movement on the two Niger bridges, which are crucial links between the southeastern and southern regions of Nigeria.
This partnership was finalized after a high-level meeting involving the Anambra State FRSC Sector Commander, Corps Commander Joyce Nnennaya Alexander, and the Police Commissioners of Anambra and Delta states, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam and CP BS Oluwafemi, respectively.
The FRSC’s Assistant Corps Marshal and Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, outlined several strategies to ease traffic flow on the Old Niger Bridge and the Second Niger Bridge. These include:
– Removal of checkpoints: All police checkpoints on the Head Bridge and Delta side of the Old Niger Bridge will be dismantled from December 18, 2024, to January 10, 2025.
– Mobile surveillance units: Special surveillance teams will be stationed along the Second Niger Bridge to monitor traffic conditions in real time.
– Joint traffic control: A robust deployment of FRSC and police officers will be carried out to manage traffic flow on both bridges throughout the yuletide season.
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These measures are expected to reduce congestion significantly and improve travel experiences for motorists during the busy holiday period.
The FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, praised the initiative, calling it a bold step toward ensuring safety and mobility for road users. He lauded the leadership of the Anambra FRSC Sector Commander for fostering synergy between the Corps and the Nigeria Police Force, emphasizing that this collaboration will set a precedent for future traffic management efforts.
“This partnership underscores our commitment to ensuring road safety and easing the challenges faced by travelers during the festive season,” Mohammed stated.
As the festive season approaches, the FRSC has appealed to road users to cooperate with traffic management officers and adhere to all traffic regulations. The Corps Marshal urged motorists to exercise patience and comply with the directives of on-ground personnel to ensure a seamless travel experience.
The FRSC and police’s joint effort represents a significant step in addressing the perennial traffic issues on the Onitsha-Asaba link bridges. With these proactive measures, travelers can look forward to a smoother and safer journey during the holiday rush.