FG Strengthens African Ties with Launch of Road Safety Bodies in Abuja

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with African countries in order to safeguard lives, boost trade, and promote sustainable mobility across the continent.

The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mallam Shehu Mohammed, made this known during the inauguration of the African Association of Road Safety Lead Agencies (AARSLA) and the West Africa Road Safety Organization (WARSO) Secretariat. He noted that the secretariat, located at the FRSC headquarters in Abuja, reflects Nigeria’s dedication to continental leadership and regional integration, which are central to the nation’s foreign policy.
According to the FRSC boss, AARSLA and WARSO will function as administrative hubs for member countries, including Mali, the Benin Republic, and Zambia.
He explained that this milestone aligns with Nigeria’s foreign policy under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, which prioritizes regional cooperation, strategic partnerships, and Africa’s leadership role in global affairs.
Mallam Shehu Mohammed further emphasized that since the establishment of WARSO 18 years ago, Nigeria has consistently supported sister nations in building and strengthening their road safety institutions.
He noted that these achievements demonstrate Nigeria’s readiness to lead through service, collaboration, and the sharing of expertise.
“AARSLA, with representation across all 54 African countries, provides a strategic platform for advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda beyond Nigeria’s borders. Built on the pillars of exchange, learning, and advocacy, it promotes peer collaboration, enhances professionalism, and amplifies Africa’s voice in global road safety discussions,” he said.
In his remarks, the Director General of the Centre National du Securite Routiere of the Benin Republic, Ariel Sacramento, who also serves as Vice President of AARSLA, expressed confidence that cross-border collaboration and shared experiences would accelerate efforts to reduce road crashes.
He commended Nigeria for hosting the headquarters, noting that it would help the continent tackle the persistent challenge of road accidents that continue to claim lives.
The Vice President of AARSLA, Ariel Sacramento, alongside the Director General of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority and other dignitaries from within and outside the country, later toured facilities at the FRSC headquarters.