…introduces instant biometric printing system
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced the clearance of a significant portion of its drivers licence backlog ahead of the 2025 Ember Months public enlightenment and sensitisation campaign, signaling a major step toward improving service delivery and road safety management across the country.
FRSC disclosed that the backlog of drivers licences had been reduced from 800,000 to 400,000, following round-the-clock operations at the Corps’ printing facilities.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja to flag off the 2025 Ember Months Campaign themed “Take Responsibility for Your Safety: Stop Distracted Driving,” Shehu Mohammed the Corps Marshal, disclosed that FRSC’s upgraded printing infrastructure can now produce an average of 15,000 licences daily, with plans to completely clear the remaining backlog by the second week of November 2025.
“We have activated plans to overcome the perennial challenges associated with delays in obtaining the drivers licence and number plates. Our printing facility has been upgraded to print an average of 15,000 drivers licences daily. This production average will be increased to clear the backlog before the second week of November 2025,” he said
According to him, this milestone marks a significant improvement in efficiency and responsiveness to public demand.
The FRSC also announced the introduction of a contactless biometric capture and instant printing system for drivers licences, which will eliminate the use of temporary licenses and allow applicants to receive their cards immediately after processing.
Mohammed explained that the new system integrates FRSC’s database with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) for real-time identity verification, similar to the Nigerian passport system. The enhanced drivers licence will also come with embedded security codes and a digital copy, ensuring authenticity and convenience.
The Corps highlighted other upcoming features, including a penalty point system that ties traffic offences to individual licences. Under the system, offenders will receive progressive warnings and face suspension or revocation once they reach specified thresholds.
To simplify renewals, FRSC will deploy self-service kiosks at major locations such as transport terminals and shopping malls, enabling motorists to renew and print their licences instantly.
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On the broader campaign, Mohammed stated that FRSC will deploy personnel and Special Marshals nationwide, conduct free vehicle checks, organise motor park rallies, and hold town hall meetings with transport unions and security agencies.
These initiatives, he said, aim to curb reckless driving, reduce crashes, and promote safer highways during the high-travel Ember Months period.
While appreciating the federal government’s continuous support, Mohammed called on Nigerians to embrace the campaign message and take responsibility for their safety. “Together, we can change our road use culture for safer roads and fuller lives,” he concluded.
