The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has revealed that over 256,000 processed driver’s licences remain unclaimed across Nigeria, with Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory topping the list.

According to official data obtained by Saturday PUNCH, Lagos accounts for 77,697 unclaimed licences, followed by the FCT with 33,825 and Enugu with 24,041. Other high numbers were recorded in states like Edo (15,916), Imo (12,580), and Kaduna (9,395).

FRSC spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide described the situation as troubling, warning that it presents an administrative burden and safety risk.

“These licences have been fully processed and are ready for collection,” Ogungbemide said. “The corps will continue to inform defaulters through all media to go and check their licences at their various centres. This is in addition to the several texts that have been sent to them through SMS.”

He added that many motorists continue to drive with expired temporary permits, which is a traffic offence.

“There will also be an increase in enforcement on no driving without driver’s licence,” Ogungbemide warned.

The FRSC urged all applicants who have completed their biometrics and documentation to visit their local collection centres immediately.

The agency reiterated its commitment to clearing the backlog and improving the efficiency of the licence issuance process.