Over 1,500 Deaths In More Than 100 Tanker Accidents, NEMA Reports.
Lokoja, Nigeria – The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has disclosed that over 1,500 people have lost their lives in more than 100 fuel tanker explosions and accidents across Nigerian roads in the past five years. The alarming statistic was revealed by NEMA’s Deputy Director, Zakari Abubakar, during a public awareness programme on tanker explosions and fire disasters held in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Thursday.
The event, organised by the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (KOSEMA), aimed to address the growing concern over the devastating impact of tanker-related incidents. Mr. Abubakar specifically cautioned against the dangerous practice of scooping fuel from overturned tankers, noting that it has caused more harm than good. “This act has led to significant loss of life and property,” he stated, urging communities to adopt precautionary measures to prevent such tragedies.
The awareness campaign is part of NEMA’s broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s disaster management framework. “Today’s gathering reflects NEMA’s commitment to collaborate with critical stakeholders to enhance preparedness and build community resilience against disasters,” Mr. Abubakar explained. The initiative seeks to address Nigeria’s vulnerability to fuel tanker accidents through early action, risk awareness, and coordinated response planning at federal, state, local government, and community levels.
The programme included technical sessions, lectures, and presentations from key stakeholders, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Fire Service, alongside traditional and market leaders. The discussions underscored the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and greater public awareness to curb the rising toll of tanker-related disasters.
NEMA’s warning comes in the wake of recent incidents, including a petrol tanker explosion on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on 11 June, which caused significant disruption and raised fresh concerns about road safety. Experts have attributed the frequency of such accidents to weak enforcement of safety regulations and inadequate vehicle standards, further compounding the risks posed by Nigeria’s reliance on road transport for fuel distribution.
The agency’s campaign, which began in Ogun State and is set to expand to Osun, targets communities along major tanker routes to drive grassroots awareness. Suggestions for systemic change have also emerged, with the Executive Chairman of Akinyele Local Government Area, Hon. Akinwole Akinyele, proposing that fuel transportation be shifted to the rail system, reserving tankers for intra-city use to reduce the risk of accidents on highways.
NEMA’s efforts highlight the urgent need for coordinated action to mitigate the devastating human and economic costs of tanker accidents in Nigeria. The agency continues to call for public cooperation and stricter regulatory measures to ensure safer roads and communities.