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Nigeria records 12% drop in road crash fatalities in Q1 2026, FRSC reports
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Nigeria experienced a 12 percent reduction in road traffic crash fatalities in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, according to the Federal Road Safety Corps. Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed announced this during the 2026 West African Road Safety Organisation Day in Abuja. Despite this improvement, Mohammed noted that the situation remains concerning within the broader African context, as Africa accounts for less than three percent of the world鈥檚 registered vehicles but over 20 percent of global road traffic fatalities. He emphasized that most victims are productive citizens, highlighting the need for urgent, coordinated interventions. The establishment of the West African Road Safety Organisation aims to promote harmonized policies and joint enforcement strategies among member states. Mohammed stated that road crashes cause over 1.5 million deaths and 70 million injuries globally each year, and a 2023 report indicated that road traffic crashes are responsible for about seven percent loss of Gross Domestic Product in Nigeria. He also mentioned that Nigeria has taken steps since ratifying the African Road Safety Charter, including aligning its National Road Safety Strategy II with the Charter鈥檚 provisions, strengthening data management, intensifying public enlightenment, promoting speed limiting devices, and introducing the FRSC mobile app. Deputy Director Abubakar El-Nafaty from the Ministry of Transportation called for stronger collaboration among Afr
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Lionel Messi has become the outright leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, achieving this feat by scoring twice in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria. The Argentine captain now has a total of 18 World Cup goals, surpassing former Germany striker Miroslav Klose. This milestone occurred as Argentina secured their spot in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, maintaining a perfect record with six points from two matches. Other top scorers include Ronaldo of Brazil with 15 goals, Gerd M眉ller of Germany and Kylian Mbapp茅 of France both with 14 goals, and Just Fontaine of France with 13 goals.
Must ReadLionel Messi became the World Cup's all-time leading goalscorer, netting twice as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 to secure a spot in the last 32. Messi scored his 17th and 18th career World Cup goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose's previous record of 16. The victory guarantees Argentina a place in the knockout rounds. Elsewhere, Kylian Mbappe is set to play his 100th game for France, aiming to add to his 14 World Cup goals. France will face Iraq, while Norway, with Erling Haaland, could also advance from Group I. German defender Nico Schlotterbeck is out of the tournament due to an ankle injury. In other matches, Spain thrashed Saudi Arabia 4-0, and Cape Verde drew 2-2 with Uruguay, with their coach Bubista expressing hopes for a knockout stage berth. Belgium drew 0-0 with Iran, who left a message promoting peace, and Egypt secured their first World Cup victory, beating New Zealand 3-1.
Must ReadThe Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Mr. Fatai Tijani, has assured residents of safety following an explosion suspected to be an Improvised Explosive Device IED in the Shoe Materials Market in Mushin. One person sustained injuries and is in stable condition. Mr. Tijani stated that preliminary findings indicate the IED was planted under a vehicle and detonated when the engine was started. Explosive Ordnance Disposal operatives were deployed to cordon off and search the area, and no additional devices were found. Remnants of the device have been recovered for forensic examination. The Commissioner urged the public to remain calm and disregard rumors of widespread insecurity. The Baale of Oke Mushin Community, Mr. Tajudeen Faronbi, described contacting authorities after being alerted to the suspicious vehicle early Monday morning. He noted the swift response of security operatives helped to manage the situation, though the vehicle's identity and ownership remain unclear.