The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has unveiled a new initiative, Women on Wheels, aimed at enhancing road safety, developing driving skills, and promoting gender inclusion among female drivers in Nigeria.
The Corps Marshal, Mallam Shehu Mohammed, made the announcement in Abuja during the maiden edition of the program. He noted the increasing participation of women in driving, not only for domestic duties such as school runs but also in the commercial transport sector.
Mallam Mohammed, who was represented by Deputy Corps Marshal Clement Oladele, revealed that as of January 2025, Nigeria has over 1.2 million unlicensed female drivers. This, he said, highlights the urgent need to revamp the FRSC’s Road Transport Standardization Scheme to accommodate structured training and recognition for women in mobility.
He also called on women-led organizations to encourage their members to attend certified driving schools before taking to the roads, emphasizing that proper training is essential for road safety and legal compliance.
In her remarks, the President of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Mrs. Edna Azura, expressed strong support for the initiative. She announced that the Council would launch a nationwide grassroots campaign to sensitize women on the importance of acquiring professional driving skills and certifications.
“The Women on Wheels program is a timely and commendable move. It will help women become more responsible and professional drivers, and we’re fully committed to supporting it,” Mrs. Azura said.
Also speaking at the event, the President of the Road Safety Officers’ Wives Association (ROSOWA), Dr. Nafisat Shehu-Mohammed, pledged the association’s collaboration with women groups to promote the initiative and ensure improved traffic management nationwide.
FRSC’s Corps Transport Standardization Officer, Kudirat Ibrahim, noted that the program also serves as a platform for women in the transport sector to share experiences, discuss challenges, and explore new opportunities.
Senior female officials from military and paramilitary agencies, who attended the event in solidarity, also pledged their support to the FRSC’s goal of empowering women to play a more active role in national socio-economic development through mobility.