A recent report from the Federal Road Safety Commission published by Sunday PUNCH indicates alarming statistics about road safety in Nigeria, revealing that there have been 54,873 fatalities due to road crashes over the last 10 years. The data highlight a total of 109,081 reported crashes throughout this period, illustrating not only the severity of the issue but also the ongoing risks associated with road travel in the country.

The analysis details the year-on-year fatalities and road crashes, showcasing a concerning trend. The highest number of road deaths was recorded in 2022, with 6,456 lives lost, marking a significant increase from previous years. The report indicates that while there was a peak in fatalities in 2022, numbers have shown a slight decline in 2023, with 5,081 deaths recorded. This may suggest potential improvements in road safety measures, although the overall historical data emphasizes the need for ongoing vigilance and strategic interventions in the transport sector.

The data points to a worrying escalation in road incidents, especially in recent years, where the number of crashes soared to over 13,000 in 2021-2022. The fluctuations observed yearly in the death toll and crash data indicate underlying challenges related to road infrastructure, driver behavior, and enforcement of traffic regulations. This report serves as a call to action for government authorities and policymakers to prioritize road safety initiatives to reduce casualties and improve the overall safety of Nigeria's roadways.