Speaking in Abuja, Othman emphasized that the cause of frequent tanker accidents is not the high-capacity tankers themselves but rather poor road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and driver behavior. He warned that banning these trucks would have severe financial repercussions, as many of the 2,000 affected trucks—each worth N150 million—are financed by commercial banks and private investors.

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has been considering limiting petroleum tanker capacity to a maximum of 45,000 litres to curb rising accidents. Alongside this restriction, the agency has also implemented safety measures such as installing anti-spill safety valves, public awareness campaigns, and stakeholder meetings. However, NMDPRA believes that noncompliance with existing safety protocols has led to recurring accidents.

Othman urged the government to consider a win-win solution that enhances safety without crippling investments in the petroleum transport sector.

As the debate continues, stakeholders are pushing for better road infrastructure, improved vehicle maintenance, and stricter driver regulations as more effective alternatives to a blanket ban on 60,000-litre tankers.

What are your thoughts on this policy? Should the government proceed with the ban, or should they focus on infrastructure and safety enforcement instead? Share your views!