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FRSC Corps Marshal Beseeches Traditional Rulers To Support Campaign Against Road Traffic Crashes

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Joel Ajayi

In his efforts to enhance road safety across all roads in Nigeria, the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed has emphasised the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders, especially traditional institutions.

He made the emphasis in the course of his end of the year traffic monitoring on the nation’s highways when he visited His Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo and Paramount Ruler of Owo Kingdom in Ondo State today 22 December, 2024.

The monitoring commenced from Abuja _Lokoja expressway through Obajana to Owo, Ondo State to ascertain the traffic situation on critical corridors. He solicited the support of the traditional ruler due to the strategic positioning of Owo town being a critical corridor that links South West to South South and North Central geopolitical zones of the country.

He believes that the influence and authority of traditional leaders within their communities are instrumental in promoting road safety awareness and encouraging compliance with traffic regulations.

By engaging traditional institutions, FRSC aims to leverage  the respect and trust traditional leaders command to disseminate information about safe road practices, the dangers of speeding, and the necessity of vehicle maintenance.

This strategic partnership is part of a broader initiative by the FRSC to reduce road traffic crashes and fatalities. By involving traditional rulers, the Corps seeks to create a more inclusive approach to road safety, recognizing that community-driven efforts can significantly complement governmental policies and enforcement measures.

In addition to collaborating with traditional leaders, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed also called for the active participation of commuters and transport unions in preventing road crashes. He emphasised that passengers should speak out against reckless driving and that transport unions must lead by example in preventing overloading and alcohol/drug-impaired driving.

FRSC will continue to engage in public enlightenment campaigns, conduct research on road safety, and implement measures aimed at creating a safer motoring environment in Nigeria. The collaboration with traditional rulers is a testament to the Corps’ commitment to involving all segments of society in the quest for safer roads.

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NICRAT, Roche, Oncopadi launch BRANT app for breast cancer care

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NICRAT, Roche, and Oncopadi unveiled the Breast Cancer Access Navigation and Testing (BRANT) application on Thursday in Abuja, aimed at reshaping breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in Nigeria.

At the launch, Prof. Usman Aliyu, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), described BRANT as a significant step in the country’s efforts to enhance patient care and streamline support systems.

He emphasised that the app would also empower individuals battling breast cancer, offering them better access to resources and guidance throughout their journey.

Represented by Dr Waziri Usman, the Director of Cancer Prevention and Control, Aliyu emphasised that breast cancer remained one of the most prevalent and deadly forms of cancer among Nigerian women.

He noted that early detection, timely intervention, and leveraging technology could greatly improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

BRANT, he explained, was designed to make navigating the complex landscape of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment easier, by connecting patients, healthcare providers, support groups, NGOs, and civil society organisations into one unified system.

Dr Omolola Salako, CEO of Oncopadi, highlighted the shortage of oncologists in Nigeria, with fewer than 95 oncologists nationwide, particularly in rural areas.

She stressed the need for technology to bridge the gap, allowing oncologists to reach patients across the country.

“Oncopadi has already been mobilising cancer patients for online care and educational resources over the past seven years.

“In partnership with Roche, Oncopadi is supporting 5,000 women newly diagnosed with breast cancer.

“The collaboration leverages Roche’s expertise in oncology diagnostics and Oncopadi’s digital oncology capabilities to launch BRANT.”

Dr Ladi Hameed, General Manager of Roche Products Limited, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to address the growing burden of breast cancer through awareness, early detection, and access to treatment.

“The BRANT programme, which includes free immunohistochemistry testing and multidisciplinary teams, aims to remove financial barriers that delay diagnoses and treatment,”he said.

While the programme would run for the next 18 months, Hameed called for collective efforts to ensure its sustainability.

Mr Alexander Chimbaru, Deputy Country Representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO) to Nigeria, lauded the initiative, calling it a valuable solution to reduce the burden of breast cancer.

He stressed the importance of taking action to ensure the programme’s success.

Dr Fatima Kyari, Registrar of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), supported the initiative, urging the organisations to adhere to regulatory guidelines regarding specialist support, digital health tools, and patient information.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports BRANT is a user-friendly platform offering personalised care, expert consultations, diagnostic tests, treatment facilities, and support for patients throughout their breast cancer journey.

NAN

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