The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have agreed to strengthen collaboration aimed at addressing the rising cases of abuse, falsification, impersonation, and illegal use of diplomatic and official number plates across Nigeria.

The resolution was reached during a courtesy visit by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, to the FRSC Headquarters in Abuja, where he met with FRSC Spokesperson, Deputy Corps Commander Osondu Ohaeri, and Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide.

Discussions focused on emerging security concerns linked to fake diplomatic plates and fraudulent vehicle identification documents.

The FRSC disclosed that recent nationwide enforcement operations led to the interception of about 1,000 vehicles allegedly using fake diplomatic plates, cloned registration documents, and other unauthorized identifiers. Both agencies expressed concern that such practices undermine Nigeria’s diplomatic integrity and could be exploited for criminal activities.

They agreed to deepen information sharing, improve verification procedures for diplomatic accreditation, and integrate diplomatic records with vehicle registration databases for real-time authentication

The agencies also called for increased public awareness and urged citizens to report suspected cases of abuse, stressing that diplomatic privileges are strictly reserved for accredited missions and personnel. (The Guardian)