The Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Alliance Hospital, Dr Christopher Otabor, has been decorated as an honorary special marshal by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for his remarkable contributions to road safety and accident victim care.
Otabor who is an orthopedic surgeon, called on Federal government to prioritise road safety by increasing funding and resources for the FRSC
He said the decoration was as result of his long-standing partnership with the FRSC since 2011, which includes medical outreach, free treatment for accident victims, and training FRSC personnel in life-saving trauma care.
He said, “We have a policy at Alliance Hospital where we don’t turn away accident victims due to lack of funds.
“Our partnership with the FRSC ensures they receive the urgent care they need,” Otabor explained after receiving the award. “This recognition reflects my dedication to reducing road traffic accidents and fatalities.”
Otabor has tirelessly supported underserved communities, providing essential medical services and training first responders in trauma management, critical for saving lives on Nigeria’s highways. His commitment to public health has garnered attention not just for his work inside the operating room but for his efforts to make Nigerian roads safer.
“The government cannot do everything alone. Private individuals like myself are here to bridge the gap, but the FRSC needs stronger financial and institutional support from our legislators and executive arms. Road safety affects everyone, and collective efforts are necessary to ensure safer roads,” he said.
Otabor’s involvement in FRSC medical programs and his hospital’s policy of assisting accident victims exemplifies his commitment to public service, and his new role as an Honorary Special Marshal will further strengthen his contribution to road safety advocacy.
As Nigeria continues to face the challenges of road accidents and fatalities, Dr. Otabor’s partnership with the FRSC offers a beacon of hope, highlighting the crucial role of private-sector engagement in national safety efforts. He reiterated his commitment to making a difference, stating, “I’m committed to continuing my work with the FRSC to make Nigerian roads safer for everyone.”
With this honor, Otabor joins a growing movement of professionals dedicated to improving road safety, further demonstrating that meaningful change in public health and safety requires both governmental and private-sector collaboration.
Meanwhile, the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, represented by ACM Aliyu B. Datsama, emphasised the growing importance of digital tools in road safety operations. “The complementary role of the Special Marshals to road safety objectives cannot be downplayed.
In recent years, the FRSC has made substantial progress by integrating various digital platforms such as the Road Transport Safety Standardization System (RTSSS), the Driving School Standardization Programme (DSSSP), and the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS).
“The FRSC Mobile Application, launched to provide real-time services to road users, and the NACRIS Web Portal for analyzing traffic crash data, were cited as key innovations in the Corps’ efforts.
“By utilising these digital tools, our Special Marshals can carry out their duties with greater efficiency and impact, solidifying their role as the image-makers of the FRSC in their communities,” Shehu noted, urging marshals to embrace these technologies to enhance productivity.
The FRSC also acknowledged the vital role of Special Marshals, many of whom are professionals in academia and IT, encouraging them to contribute to the Corps’ digital transformation through research and innovative solutions.
“Your expertise is invaluable. Research plays a critical role in identifying emerging trends, and your input could shape the future of road safety in Nigeria,” Shehu emphasised.
He closed by reminding marshals to prioritize their health and wellbeing, citing concerns over rising deaths among the Special Marshals. “Your health is essential to our mission. Let us honor those we’ve lost by taking better care of ourselves and each other,” he concluded.
Earlier in his opening remarks by the RS7 Zonal Commanding Officer, ACM Hafiz Mohammed, said as Special Marshals, your contributions are invaluable to the Corps’ success. This workshop aims to update your knowledge on FRSC’s IT facilities and digital efforts.
He said, “I urge you to engage actively, ask questions, and provide constructive feedback. Your input will shape the future of road safety in Nigeria.
“Our Corps Marshal, Mallam Shehu Mohammed, values your contributions and will respond promptly to recommendations from this workshop. Let us work together to create a safer motoring environment for all Nigerians.”
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