Senate Considers Bill on Tanker Safety and Regulatory Framework

Senate Considers Bill on Tanker Safety and Regulatory Framework  

The Red Chamber of the National Assembly deliberated on the Articulated Vehicle Regulation Bill, 2025 (SB 655), meant to improve the safety and regulation of articulated vehicles and fuel tankers in Nigeria.

Speaking on the Bill, Senator Babangida Hussaini, Representing jigawa Northwest Senatorial District, maintained that the legislation aimed to establish a framework for the regular inspection, maintenance, and safety enforcement of articulated vehicles. Noting that the bill, will help reduce road accidents and tanker explosions if passed, which have killed many people over the years. 

In his words:

“Recent incidents in Niger and Lagos State and other southeast are lack of a strong regulatory framework for articulated vehicles.

The bill aims to address issues like overloaded vehicles, poor maintenance, and the absence of a comprehensive legislative framework to ensure compliance with safety standards.

 The bill includes: provisions for regular maintenance checks and certification, which could prevent many accidents. And Support for Heavy Duty Vehicle Restriction

I strongly supports the policy, because it will reduce competition between tanker drivers and commercial vehicles during peak hours.” He said.

Senator Babangida who emphasized the need for public sensitization and enforcement to ensure compliance with speed limits and other regulations also said that it is the executive's responsibility to ensure compliance, and expresses confidence in the present administration's capacity to enforce the bill.

He however added that the bill includes provisions for regular medical checks and tests for drivers, as well as measures to improve their welfare and working conditions.