The federal government has announced a delay in the implementation of the ban on 60,000-capacity fuel trucks, with the new commencement date set for September. This decision follows an earlier announcement by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to rescind the ban, which was originally scheduled for March 1, 2025.

Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of NMDPRA, addressed fuel tanker operators, emphasizing the risks associated with operating heavy-duty petroleum tankers. He stated that the reduction to 45,000-litre trucks aims to mitigate truck-in-transit incidents that have previously resulted in fires and fatalities. According to Ahmed, a checklist of safety features must be followed by every tanker from the point of loading, encompassing the roadworthiness of the truck, the driver's competence, and other critical features.

The NMDPRA CEO, represented by Dr. Mustapha Lamorde, the Director of Health, Safety, Environment, and Community, explained that the decision to reduce truck capacity was a result of resolutions made by the Technical Working Group (TWG), comprising 13 industry stakeholders. The plan involves an initial reduction to 60,000 litres, followed by a further reduction to the target of 45,000 litres by the fourth quarter of 2025.

Ahmed warned that any truck driver found in violation of the safety guidelines provided by the TWG would face consequences as outlined in the regulations. He reiterated the importance of operating in a safe, efficient, effective, environmentally friendly, and sustainable manner, with strict penalties for non-compliance.

Hyginus Omeje, the Assistant Corps Commander, Operations of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Abuja, identified reckless speed and alcohol influence as primary causes of road accidents. He advised the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) to install speed limit devices and urged truck drivers to exercise patience while driving.

Omeje emphasized that defensive driving is crucial, highlighting research indicating that 80% of road accidents are due to human error. The National Operational Coordinator of NARTO, Dr. Ibrahim Bataya, also stressed the importance of safety, urging drivers to prioritize it and prevent potential risks of road accidents.