The inspiration for this bill came from the frequent incidents of tanker explosions and trailer accidents on our highways, which have been a major concern for years – Senator Hussain Uba
By Fatima Saka
The Nigerian Senate has begun deliberations on the Articulated Vehicle Regulation Bill, 2025 (SB 655), a proposed legislation aimed at enhancing the safety and regulation of articulated vehicles and fuel tankers across the country.
Leading the debate on the bill’s general principles, Senator Babangida Hussain Uba (Jigawa Northwest) emphasized that the legislation seeks to establish a framework for the regular inspection, maintenance, and enforcement of safety standards for articulated vehicles. According to him, if passed, the bill will significantly reduce road accidents and tanker explosions, which have claimed thousands of lives over the years.
“The goal of this bill is to ensure that articulated vehicles are in good condition, thereby minimizing accidents and breakdowns on our roads,” Senator Uba stated. “Key provisions include mandatory inspections, strict maintenance standards, and measures to prevent tanker explosions and driver fatigue.”
Citing past incidents, he highlighted that between June 2000 and October 2004, Nigeria recorded at least 169 fuel tanker accidents, resulting in 1,613 deaths. He stressed the urgency of enforcing stricter safety measures, especially in light of recent tanker explosions in Jigawa, Lagos, and Niger states.
During the plenary session, several senators voiced their support for the bill, with some advocating additional measures to regulate the movement of tankers and trailers. Senator Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central) suggested that Nigeria should adopt policies similar to those in other countries, where heavy-duty vehicles are restricted to nighttime operations to reduce traffic congestion and accidents.
“In some countries, tankers and heavy-duty trucks are only allowed on the roads between midnight and early morning. This helps ease traffic and prevents deadly crashes,” he noted.
The proposed bill also includes provisions for:
Biannual vehicle inspections to ensure roadworthiness.
Enforcement of strict design and safety standards for tankers.
Public awareness campaigns on responding to tanker accidents.
Ensuring Compliance and Implementation
Speaking with journalists about the bill’s enforcement, lawmakers emphasized that a strong regulatory framework is necessary to ensure compliance. They noted that while Nigeria has good policies, the real challenge lies in implementation and enforcement.
“It is the responsibility of the executive to ensure compliance. Our role as lawmakers is to create laws that promote good governance and national development,” one senator stated.
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He further expressed confidence in the current administration’s commitment to road safety, stating that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated the capacity to support policies that drive national progress.
Additionally, lawmakers stressed the importance of considering the human element, particularly the welfare and working conditions of tanker and trailer drivers.
“This bill should not only focus on vehicle regulations but also address the welfare of drivers who risk their lives transporting goods across the country,” a senator noted.
Following the debate, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Transportation, which is expected to review and report back to the Senate in the coming weeks.
