Firm, Road Safety Corps Condemn Drunk Driving In Lagos

Pernod Ricard Nigeria, in partnership with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos State Command, has launched a renewed campaign against drunk driving.

This, it said, is part of efforts to promote safer roads during the Ember months and the upcoming festive season.

The event occurred. In Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday, the theme was ‘Take Responsibility for Your Safety: Do Not Drink and Drive.’

The managing director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Michael Ehindero, in his welcome address, stated that the initiative aligns with the company’s global commitment to responsible consumption and community well-being.

He described road traffic injuries as a significant public health concern in Nigeria, noting that driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes.

Ehindero said the company has, since 2021, intensified its responsible drinking programmes under its global sustainability and responsibility roadmap.

These include the ‘Drink More Water’ moderation campaign and the Safe Roads initiative, which was implemented in collaboration with the FRSC.

He added that thousands of drivers have been sensitised across major motor parks nationwide, stressing that the goal of this year’s activation is to expand awareness and encourage more Nigerians to commit to safer decisions on the roads.

As the festive period approaches, he urged road users to embrace the Road Safety Pledge and prioritise responsible behaviour.

He emphasised that road safety can only improve through collective commitment and collaboration among government agencies, transport unions, media, civil society and private sector partners.

In his keynote address, the Lagos State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Corps Commander Kehinde Hamzat, reaffirmed the Corps’ determination to curb alcohol related crashes through sustained enforcement, education, and public engagement.

Hamzat said the Ember months usually come with increased mobility due to commercial activities and social events, leading to a rise in road crashes driven by human behaviour rather than any supernatural forces.

He listed speed violations, drunk driving, distractions, fatigue, and poor vehicle maintenance as the leading risk factors.