The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has announced plans to enforce a 45,000-litre limit on petrol tankers beginning in the fourth quarter of 2025, as part of a broader safety campaign targeting the petroleum transport sector.
The announcement was made during a safety sensitization programme held at the Lekki Free Trade Zone in Lagos, aimed at tanker owners and drivers. The initiative is designed to address the increasing rate of road accidents involving petroleum tankers, which have resulted in significant loss of lives and property.
Speaking on behalf of NMDPRA’s Chief Executive, Engineer Ahmed Farouk, the Director of Health, Safety, Environment, and Community, Dr. Mustapha Lamorde, emphasized the agency’s commitment to reducing accidents linked to overloaded tankers and reckless driving. He stated that limiting the capacity of tankers to 45,000 litres is a critical step towards enhancing road safety and protecting communities.
Dr. Lamorde also urged tanker drivers to adopt safer driving practices, including regular vehicle inspections, adherence to speed limits, and familiarity with emergency response protocols.
In his remarks, Assistant Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Hyginus Omeje, warned drivers against competing for the right of way, stressing that “safe arrival is more important than early arrival.” He encouraged fleet owners to install speed limiting devices and called on the Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union to collaborate with the FRSC in promoting safe driving habits at all driver forums.
Also addressing the gathering, the National Vice Chairman of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers Association, Lagos Zone, Mr. Olabisi Dauda, reminded drivers that night driving remains prohibited and urged them to comply with all regulatory guidelines and enforcement agencies.
Drivers were additionally advised to take advantage of the health insurance scheme available to petroleum products transporters, reinforcing the need for their wellbeing in the high-risk transport sector.
The safety campaign reflects the NMDPRA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening operational standards and stakeholder engagement in the midstream and downstream oil and gas sectors.