:By Bisi Bamishe
As Nigerians usher in the New Year with celebrations and festivities, Leadway Holdings, one of the nation’s foremost non-banking financial institutions, is calling for heightened public safety awareness. This advocacy is part of its continuous efforts aimed at empowering individuals to prioritise their well-being amidst different economic and social activities – especially this season when everyone returns to their homesteads after the holidays and settle into the new year.
At a concluded webinar hosted by the organisation, key speakers, including Imeh Udofia, Chief Security Officer of Leadway Group; Aishat Bello Garuba, Head, Corporate Services, Leadway Holdings; and Chief Route Commander Godwin Umweni Johnson of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), shared actionable strategies for staying safe even in the midst of increasing economic and social activities around us.
The webinar addressed pressing safety concerns such as road traffic risks and security challenges unique to high-traffic seasons like now where people and organisations are returning to full-scale work after the festive season. Aishat Bello Garuba opened the discussion with a call to action: “At Leadway, your safety is our priority, and we are deeply invested in your wellbeing. The New Year is a time of joy and working towards our resolutions, but it is crucial to stay vigilant and well-informed. Through this campaign, we aim to equip you with the expert insights and practical tips to remain informed, vigilant, and prepared, highlighting our dedication to bridging the gap against risk exposure”
Chief Security Officer Imeh Udofia highlighted the importance of personal vigilance and adopting safety best practices. “The New Year presents opportunities for celebration, but it also brings unique security challenges. Simple actions, like safeguarding personal belongings, reporting lost items with your identity, avoiding late-night commutes, and staying aware of your surroundings, can make all the difference. Security is not passive; it requires awareness and action. At Leadway, our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and tools to navigate these challenges safely.”
On road safety, Chief Route Commander Godwin Umweni Johnson urged Nigerians to embrace shared responsibility. He stated: “As an organisation, we have increased activities this period to match the dynamism of the period. This year, we are taking a paradigm shift with the theme ‘Speak Up Against Dangerous Driving”, where our focus this year extends to passengers, urging them to take responsibility for their safety. While drivers remain a key focus, we are empowering passengers to hold them accountable. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and when every road user plays their part, we can create a crash-free and safe environment. The risks are not mystical; they are preventable when we prioritise responsibility and caution.”
Participants lauded Leadway’s proactive approach in providing valuable insights into fostering a culture of safety. Reflecting on the initiative, Aishat Bello Garuba added: “Safety is a shared responsibility. At Leadway, we remain committed to championing efforts that safeguard lives and empower Nigerians to celebrate the New Year with peace of mind.”
Leadway Holdings continues to demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of Nigerians, transforming the New Year season into one of empowerment, resilience, and collective action towards a safer society. This serves as a call to action for all Nigerians to prioritise safety, take ownership of their wellbeing, and embrace the new year with safety and peace of mind.
