The Federal Government is advancing plans to equip the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) with helicopters and drones to enhance swift emergency evacuation of accident victims nationwide. This initiative, developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, was announced during the FRSC Management Retreat and press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday.
Clement Oladele, Deputy Corps Marshal in charge of the Corps’ Policy, Research, and Statistics Department, highlighted progress in securing the helicopters and noted ongoing discussions with private sector partners to further boost FRSC’s resources. Plans include the deployment of air ambulances, strategically stationed near trauma centers along high-risk accident routes.
“Aside from new engagements initiated by the Corps Marshal, private individuals have expressed interest in partnering with us through a Public-Private Partnership,” Oladele stated. “We initially thought securing helicopters might take longer, but from ongoing discussions, it may happen sooner than expected.”
Oladele emphasized that these helicopters will be supported by air ambulances and drones to enhance the FRSC’s technological capabilities. “These air ambulances will be strategically positioned near trauma centers in areas prone to road crashes, enabling quick evacuation of crash victims. Drones will also be deployed as part of our technology-driven efforts to improve FRSC’s emergency response,” he added.
This initiative aligns with FRSC’s commitment to leveraging technology and private-sector collaboration to improve road safety and reduce response times during emergencies.