FG Bans 60,000-Litre Fuel Tankers Nationwide to Curb Road Crashes
In a decisive move to reduce road crashes involving fuel tankers, the Federal Government has announced a nationwide ban on 60,000-litre petroleum tankers effective March 1, 2025. This decision follows an alarming rise in truck-in-transit incidents, resulting in numerous fatalities, injuries, and environmental damage.
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) made the announcement in Abuja, highlighting that from the set date, no truck exceeding the 60,000-litre axle load will be permitted to load at depots. Furthermore, by the fourth quarter of 2025, trucks carrying over 45,000 litres will also be prohibited from transporting petroleum products.
This resolution was reached during a stakeholders’ meeting that included key agencies such as the Department of State Service (DSS), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), and others. The Executive Director of Distribution Systems, Storage, and Retailing Infrastructure at NMDPRA, Ogbugo Ukoha, emphasized that the consensus represents a critical step toward ensuring safer transportation of petroleum products.
In addressing recent concerns over fuel quality, Ukoha dismissed allegations of substandard products, reaffirming that all petroleum imports and locally refined products meet strict regulatory standards before distribution. He clarified that parameters such as sulfur content, density, and oxygenate levels are thoroughly tested by accredited laboratories to ensure compliance.
Additionally, Ukoha noted that following the removal of fuel subsidies in May 2023, daily petrol consumption dropped from an average of 66 million litres to approximately 50 million litres. With local refineries contributing less than 50% of the national supply, the remaining shortfall is met through imports by private oil marketing companies. This measure aims to maintain consistent fuel availability across the country while adhering to safety regulations.
Moral Lesson: Regulations are essential for public safety. Compliance ensures a safer environment for all road users.
