By Isqil Najim
Following a devastating petrol tanker explosion in Niger State on January 18,, 2025, that claimed over 70 lives, the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE), led by Engr. Oluseun Faluyi, has issued a strong call for stricter enforcement of safety standards across the road transport sector.
NISafetyE conveyed its deepest sympathies to the bereaved families over the loss of lives.
“To the grieving families, communities, and all Nigerians, the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers, National Headquarters (NISafetyE) extends its deepest condolences.
The institution emphasized that the incident highlights critical gaps in the implementation and oversight of existing safety protocols. “When safety standards and regulations are followed by all duty-holders, such accidents will not result in the loss of lives, homes, and hope.”
They stressed the shared responsibility of all those involved in the tanker transport ecosystem, “from Tanker owners – who buy tankers or who pay for them to be built to Tanker drivers – who drive or operate petroleum tankers; Steel Fabrication workshops – where petroleum tankers are built; Vehicle inspection units – who inspect and certify the roadworthiness of such tankers; Highway engineers – who design or build the roads the tankers ply and others in the chain of accountability.”
The institution specifically called for stricter adherence to engineering standards for tanker construction, regular vehicle inspections, comprehensive driver training, and proper road maintenance. Adding that robust engineering standards are crucial for ensuring that “Tanker bodies won’t crush even if they get involved in collisions; Manhole covers will remain secure and not spill their contents even if the tankers overturn; Road surfaces and camber are maintained adequately in locations where loaded tankers are vulnerable, etc.”
The institution reiterated that tragic events in Niger highlight the lapses that demand immediate and collective action. “This is not just about technical compliance; it’s about saving lives and ensuring that communities across Nigeria can live without fear of another such tragedy.”
NISafetyE expressed commitment to collaborating with government agencies, and industry stakeholders to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for improved safety and enforcement, aiming to prevent future loss of life.
Civil Society Calls for Increased Oversight and Public Awareness
In a related development, The Global Rights, a Civil Society Organization (CSO), has condemned the dangerous practice of fuel scooping at accident scenes and urged the government to impose strict penalties for such actions.
Abiodun Baiyewu, Global Rights country director, said the devastating incident, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to prevent such recurring tragedies.
Global Rights, noted that over the years, investigations into similar incidents had often yielded little or no actionable outcomes, stressing that it was imperative that the Police, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and Directorate of Vehicle Inspection Services to not only conduct thorough investigations but also publish their findings and implement preventive measures.
“We call for a holistic approach involving the government, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), and fuel tanker owners to address the root causes of such disasters.
“Invest in road infrastructure and expand alternative transport systems such as rail and pipelines for fuel distribution, Strengthen regulatory oversight to ensure only roadworthy tankers, operated by well-trained drivers, transport hazardous materials and Initiate in nationwide public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the dangers of engaging with fuel spills and accident scenes”, the Group tasked the Federal Government.
Fuel tanker explosions have become an alarming and recurring phenomenon across Nigeria. In the past four years, media reports indicate over 400 lives have been lost. Recent incidents include:
- January 18, 2025 (Suleja, Niger State): Over 98 people killed.
- January 6, 2025 (Delta State): Four deaths.
- October 2024 (Jigawa State): Over 144 deaths.
- September 8, 2024 (Agaie, Niger State): Approximately 48 deaths.
- December 22, 2023 (Ebonyi State): Two deaths.
- July 3, 2023 (Ondo State): 20 deaths.
- April 28, 2023 (Plateau State): 13 deaths.
- November 10, 2022 (Kogi State): At least 12 deaths.
- October 20, 2022 (Lagos-Ibadan Expressway): 10 deaths.
- February 18, 2022 (Lagos-Ibadan Expressway): At least 17 deaths.