Abuja, Nigeria – In a move aimed at bolstering road safety and curbing the incessant rate of fuel tanker accidents, the Federal Government has announced a ban on the operation of 60,000-litre capacity tankers on Nigerian roads, effective March 1, 2024. Naija247news reports that this decision comes after a series of devastating incidents involving such tankers, resulting in significant loss of lives and property.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Naija247news gathered that the decision was reached after extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and tanker drivers’ associations. The government has expressed its commitment to ensuring safer transportation of petroleum products across the country.
According to Naija247news, the ban is part of a broader strategy to overhaul the haulage sector and improve road infrastructure. Naija247news understands that the government is concerned about the structural integrity of the 60,000-litre tankers, many of which are reportedly old and poorly maintained, posing a significant risk to other road users.
Naija247news reports that the new regulation stipulates that tankers operating on Nigerian roads must not exceed a capacity of 45,000 litres. This measure, according to government sources, will not only reduce the risk of accidents but also minimize the impact of spills in the event of an incident.
Naija247news gathered that the FRSC has been mandated to enforce the ban rigorously. According to Naija247news, the FRSC will deploy its personnel across the country to ensure compliance and impound any 60,000-litre tankers found operating on the roads after the deadline. Naija247news understands that hefty fines and other penalties await violators.
Naija247news reports that the government recognizes the potential impact of this ban on the petroleum product supply chain and has assured Nigerians that measures are in place to mitigate any disruptions. Naija247news understands that the NNPC has been directed to work closely with marketers and tanker drivers’ associations to ensure a smooth transition to the new regulations.
According to Naija247news, the government is also investing in improving the country’s road network, which has been identified as a major contributing factor to tanker accidents. Naija247news reports that several key highways are currently undergoing rehabilitation and expansion.
Naija247news understands that the ban has been met with mixed reactions from stakeholders. While some tanker drivers have expressed concerns about the financial implications of replacing their tankers, others have acknowledged the need for stricter regulations to improve road safety. Naija247news reports that the government is engaging with the tanker drivers’ associations to address their concerns and provide necessary support.
This development, Naija247news reports, signals a renewed commitment by the government to prioritize road safety and modernize the petroleum product haulage sector. The success of this initiative will depend on the effective enforcement of the ban and the cooperation of all stakeholders.
