By Zaharaddeen Ishq Abubakar | Katsina TIMES | May 22, 2025
The Katsina State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in enhancing road safety measures across the state.
Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abdullahi Garba Faskari, made the pledge on Thursday, May 22, during a courtesy visit by the newly appointed FRSC Sector Commander for Katsina State, Commander Maxwell Kaltungo Lede, at the Government Secretariat.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda, Ph.D., the SSG welcomed the new commander and expressed appreciation for the vision and expertise he brings to the role. He commended Lede’s modern strategies, particularly his emphasis on global standards and mobile technology, noting their potential to significantly reduce road accidents in the state.
“Although FRSC is a federal agency, it is the people of Katsina who directly benefit from its services. We therefore see your efforts as essential to our state’s development. We will continue to collaborate with you to ensure the success of road safety initiatives,” Faskari said.
He also embraced the new operational plans introduced by the commander and assured him of the state government’s continued cooperation in curbing road crashes and promoting traffic law compliance. Faskari further pledged the unwavering support of Governor Radda's administration.
In his remarks, Commander Lede thanked the state government and Katsina residents for the warm reception since his arrival on May 4, 2025. He stressed that road safety is a critical public health issue globally and highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to reducing road traffic deaths by 50% before 2030, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3.6.
Lede acknowledged the efforts of his predecessor and outlined his plans to revive the Katsina State Road Safety Advisory Council and extend its reach to local government levels, as mandated by federal policy.
“Katsina has the potential to be a role model in road safety—not just in Nigeria, but across Africa. What’s needed now is strong political will and collaboration among stakeholders,” he said.
As part of the new approach, Commander Lede introduced the FRSC Mobile App, which enables users to request emergency assistance, verify driver’s licenses, identify accident-prone areas, and monitor the activities of road safety officers.
“The app allows the public to submit complaints, verify vehicle registration, and play a role in ensuring road safety,” Lede explained.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials and top FRSC officers from the Katsina State sector, marking the beginning of a renewed partnership focused on safer roads and an improved transport system for all.