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The Corps Operators' meeting is the Federal Road Safety Commission enlarged meeting, which includes the Management Staff of the Commission, as well as all the Commanding Officers of the 12 Zonal Commands and 37 Sector Commands in the Federation.
It is a quarterly event that affords the participants an opportunity to evaluate past performances and at the same time evolve and harmonize future strategies for effective Road Traffic Management across the country.
The 2007 Corps Operators’ meeting is unique for 2 reasons. First, it is the first of such since this year.
Second, and more important, it is the first since the change of leadership in the FRSC.
In what was billed to be a keynote address, but which turned out to be a detailed presentation of FRSC Situation Report and Action Plan, the Corps Marshal and Chief Executive Osita Chidoka listed out the rot presently on ground, even as he admitted that there are also some commendable points for the Commission.
He thereafter outlined his medium term reforms for the Commission.
One of these is the re-branding of the Commission in the minds of the public as Regulatory body for road transportation. In line with this, the Commission will not establish any driver training schools, but will regulate and control the establishment of such instituitions through certification.
In the same vein, from the beginning of 2008, all fresh applications for drivers’ license are to be tabled by certified driving schools on behalf of their students.
Still on re-branding, FRSC will work towards being part of road designs across the nation. To maintain standardization of road signage, the Commission aims to have all road sign contractors register with the Commission for uniformity and control.
In the area of patrol and rescue operations, plans are on the way to increase operational vehicles by the year 2008.
In the same vein, a database of all drivers in Nigeria is to be created, while the Commission will develop a robust ICT Network to facilitate front end operational activities. FRSC will be fully involved in all vehicle licensing and drivers’ licensing.
The acquisition of ambulances and the establishment of Help Clinics will also receive priority attention.
In realization of these, the Commission aims to increase staff strength, and to also subject its staff to local and international courses for professionalism and effective output.
For new employees into FRSC, there will be a compulsory six months intensive training in the FRSC Academy.
In conclusion, the Corps Marshal stated that all Commanding Officers will be adequately empowered for effective service delivery.
Compiled by:
Ohaeri Osondu. J.
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