The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ondo State has reported a significant backlog of uncollected driver’s licenses, totaling 6,038 as of the latest report. This substantial number comprises licenses carried over from the previous year and newly produced ones. This accumulation raises concerns about public awareness and the importance of possessing a valid driver’s license, a legal requirement for operating vehicles on Nigerian roads. The FRSC emphasizes the necessity of collecting these licenses to avoid potential legal repercussions and ensure road safety.
A breakdown of the figures reveals that 7,213 licenses were carried over from 2024 to 2025, indicating a pre-existing issue with unclaimed licenses. This backlog was compounded by an additional 3,097 licenses received from the production plant between January and the time of the report, bringing the total number of available licenses to 10,310. Of these, only 4,272 have been collected, leaving a significant majority unclaimed. The FRSC attributes this low collection rate to a lack of awareness among applicants and a general apathy towards collecting the crucial document.
The FRSC, concerned about the implications of this backlog, has taken proactive steps to inform the public. The Sector Commander, Dr. Samuel Ibitoye, publicly disclosed the figures in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, urging applicants to visit the designated collection point, the Board of Internal Revenue office in Alagbaka, Ondo State. This public announcement aims to raise awareness about the availability of the licenses and encourage individuals to claim their documents. The FRSC hopes that by publicizing this information, they can significantly reduce the number of uncollected licenses and ensure drivers are legally compliant.
The emphasis on possessing a valid driver’s license stems from its legal significance and its role in promoting road safety. According to the FRSC, a valid driver’s license is the only legal document permitting individuals to drive on Nigerian roads. Driving without a license is considered a serious offense, subjecting offenders to penalties under the law. Furthermore, in the event of an accident, unlicensed drivers are not afforded the same legal protections as licensed drivers, potentially facing more severe consequences.
The FRSC also highlights the implications for insurance claims and legal proceedings. In the unfortunate event of an accident, an unlicensed driver may find their insurance claims invalidated, leaving them personally liable for damages and medical expenses. Similarly, during legal proceedings, the absence of a valid license can be used against the driver, potentially leading to harsher penalties and complications. Therefore, possessing a valid driver’s license is not only a legal obligation but also a crucial step in protecting oneself from potential financial and legal burdens.
The FRSC’s appeal extends to those who have yet to obtain a driver’s license altogether. The Sector Commander emphasized the importance of regularizing their driving documents, urging them to obtain a valid license immediately. This call to action aims to bring all drivers into compliance with the law and contribute to a safer road environment for everyone. The FRSC continues to work towards raising awareness and facilitating the process of obtaining and collecting driver’s licenses to ensure that all drivers on Nigerian roads are legally compliant and contribute to overall road safety. The uncollected licenses represent a significant concern, and the FRSC’s efforts are geared towards addressing this issue and promoting responsible driving practices.
