Security firm urges caution as Nigerians travel across cities for festivities

Nigerians have been urged to exercise caution to avoid travel-related risks as they move from one city to another to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr and Easter, observed by Muslims and Christians, respectively.

Proton Security, a leading integrated security services company that provided this advice, raised concerns about increased pressure on road infrastructure, security systems, and emergency response capacity.

The firm noted that festive periods typically experience spikes in road crashes due to increased vehicular movement, long-distance travel, and night driving, citing data from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), which shows that Nigeria records thousands of road crashes annually.

“We urge corporate leaders to treat employee movement as a critical business function. Properly managed travel protocols protect lives, sustain operations, and safeguard corporate reputation,” Adekunmi Odebunmi,  the company’s managing director, said in a statement obtained by BusinessDay.

Odebunmi advised organisations to establish clear, enforceable travel guidelines, including approved routes, a preference for daylight travel where feasible, mandatory vehicle checks before departure, and a dedicated emergency contact accessible to all travelling staff.

“Staggered schedules, monitored transport for groups or key personnel, and escorted convoys along high-risk corridors are strongly recommended,” he said.

Continuing, he said, “Businesses must take the lead at a time like this. When organisations plan, resource, and actively monitor staff movement, they not only protect their people but also preserve operational stability. At Proton, we bring together trained personnel, data-driven risk assessment, and rapid response capability to support this responsibility.”

He stressed the importance of routine oversight, advising that companies should embed regular check-ins and simple tracking or reporting systems into their processes, with management ensuring compliance. These measures reduce risk exposure, minimise disruption, and demonstrate a clear commitment to employee welfare during periods of heightened movement.

The company also advised families and individual travellers to adopt simple precautions that strengthen overall safety outcomes. Planning journeys, avoiding night travel where possible, ensuring vehicles are roadworthy, securing valuables discreetly, and maintaining regular communication with trusted contacts remain effective ways to reduce vulnerability and support broader public safety efforts.

Proton underscores the importance of coordinated action across the wider security ecosystem. Stronger collaboration between businesses,  unions, law enforcement agencies, and licensed private security providers can significantly enhance travel safety.

Intelligence sharing, visible patrols at transport hubs, and targeted interventions along high-risk routes are practical steps that deter crime and improve response capability.

Over the years, Proton has invested in technology-enabled monitoring systems, professional training, and rapid escalation protocols. The company provides tailored travel safety solutions, including pre-travel briefings, convoy and escort services, and round-the-clock emergency support for organisations that prioritise both employee safety and business continuity.

It urges corporate decision-makers to act with urgency and clarity. By implementing structured travel protocols, resourcing monitored transportation where required, and communicating expectations effectively, businesses not only reduce immediate risk, but also demonstrate leadership that sustains confidence, protects lives, and keeps economic activity moving safely.