The Atayero of Aramoko Kingdom, Oba Olusegun Aderemi, has called for a robust, multi-sector collaboration involving the Federal Government, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), automotive stakeholders, and the media to strengthen road safety and curb avoidable accidents on Nigerian roads.
The royal father made this appeal while delivering a goodwill message at the 30th anniversary celebration of Motoring World, held at the MUSON Centre in Lagos.
Oba Aderemi, who also serves as Managing Director of Automatic Fit and Energy Limited, commended the publisher of Motoring World, Femi Owoeye, and his team for their sustained contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s automotive industry.
In recognition of his impactful work in vehicle diagnostics, preventive maintenance, and road safety advocacy, the monarch was honoured with Motoring World’s Auto Diagnostics & Service Excellence Award at the event.
He also paid glowing tribute to the FRSC for its continued efforts in promoting safer roads nationwide.
Reflecting on the early years of his business, Oba Aderemi revealed that his company once partnered the FRSC to investigate the root causes of road accidents in Nigeria. According to him, the study identified driver negligence and poor vehicle maintenance, particularly wheel misalignment, unbalanced tyres, and other mechanical faults as major contributors to crashes.
“Most accidents on our roads stem from negligence and avoidable mechanical defects such as unaligned wheels and unbalanced tyres”, he noted.
These findings, he said, inspired the establishment of his auto care company, which focuses on preventive maintenance services such as wheel alignment and tyre balancing to enhance vehicle safety.
While acknowledging improvements in public awareness over time, the monarch expressed concern over the persistent knowledge gap among motorists regarding basic vehicle maintenance and tyre safety.
He warned against the widespread practice of overinflating tyres, describing it as a significant safety hazard – especially during long-distance travel.
“I feel concerned when motorists are advised to inflate tyres to 40 or 50 psi. That is dangerous. Within the city, tyre pressure should generally not exceed 35 psi. On highways, drivers must be cautious, as tyres expand with heat”, he cautioned.
Oba Aderemi urged stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns and sustain initiatives that promote proper vehicle maintenance.
He further disclosed plans to collaborate with former FRSC Corps Marshal, Boboye Oyeyemi, and Motoring World publisher, Femi Owoeye, on future road safety programmes. Details of the initiative, he said, will be unveiled in an upcoming edition of Motoring World.
The monarch expressed optimism that stronger synergy among government agencies, industry players, and the media would significantly improve road safety and create a more secure and efficient driving environment across Nigeria.