The National Association of Road Transport Owners and the Nigerian government disagree on the idea of prohibiting 60,000-liter gasoline trucks from using federal roadways.
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority suggested banning trucks with 60,000-liter capacities during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja on Wednesday in an effort to stop the ongoing tanker explosions that have killed 493 people in the previous three years.
In order to reduce the number of fatalities from petroleum tanker accidents to zero, the Nigerian government has recommended that tankers be limited to a maximum capacity of 45,000 liters.
During the stakeholders’ meeting on Wednesday, Farouk Ahmed, the NMDPRA’s CEO, made the announcement.
Ahmed claims that the number of fatalities from the petroleum truck explosion has been rising, rising from seven in 2022 to 24 in 2023 and 341 in 2024. The tragedy has already reached 121 in 2025, just two months after it started.
“We have already reported five road tanker incidents this year, resulting in 79 injuries and 121 fatalities. These occurrences are unacceptable and needless. They have to be stopped and eliminated.
He stated, “Considering the detrimental effect on the roads, a suitable truck carrying capacity of 60,000 versus 45,000 liters should be determined.”
In order to avoid constant tanker explosions, he added, downstream operators must follow safety regulations.
