NMDPRA Takes Steps to Reduce Tanker Accidents and Educate Drivers

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) is calling for better teamwork, alertness, and adherence to safety rules to make transporting petroleum products safer.

Ibrahim Dimowo, the South-South Regional Coordinator of NMDPRA, made this statement on Thursday during the second Technical Working Committee (TWC) Trucks-in-Transit Road Show in Warri, Delta State.

Mr Dimowo said the event aims to raise safety awareness among petroleum operators and tanker drivers. This builds on the success of the first event held in Lagos.

He explained that the training included topics like defensive driving, recognizing hazards, managing fatigue, preventing fires, handling spills, ensuring tanker safety, and responding to emergencies.

Mr Dimowo pointed out that transporting petroleum products is crucial for Nigeria’s energy security and economic growth. He stressed that everyone must work together to reduce the risks involved.

He praised the Technical Working Committee on Trucks-in-Transit for their efforts to cut down on tanker accidents and improve emergency readiness.

Mr Dimowo also urged tanker drivers and transport companies to put safety first and protect lives, properties, and the environment.

“Every safe trip completed is a testament to your commitment to protecting lives and preserving the integrity of the petroleum supply chain,” he said.

He is confident that the knowledge gained from this training will help prevent accidents and ensure safer roads for everyone.

Yusuf Othman, the national president of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), also supported the initiative. His speech was delivered by Atiku Ahmed, the association’s general manager of administration.

He said road safety is a shared duty among drivers, transport owners, regulators, and the community. Mr Othman mentioned that the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) reported 7,156 road crashes across Nigeria from January to September 2026.

According to him, these crashes led to 3,445 deaths and 22,292 injuries in that time. Still, he noted that the FRSC reported a 61.29 percent drop in deaths from tanker and trailer accidents in 2025.

Mr Othman said NARTO focuses on training drivers, following loading rules, using speed limiters, inspecting vehicles, and raising public awareness.

He advised tanker drivers to stick to speed limits and take enough rest. He also told motorists to keep a safe distance from crashed or leaking tankers.

In a presentation, Omiko Godwin, assistant corps marshal of operations at FRSC, said 90 percent of tanker-related crashes are due to speeding and fatigue.

While talking about “Staying Alive on the Highway: Defensive Driving, Fatigue and Hazard Awareness for Tanker Drivers”, Mr Godwin emphasized the need for professionalism.

He suggested that operators should have two drivers for each tanker so one can rest when tired. He also told drivers to check their vehicles before trips, know their routes, and keep a safe distance from other road users.

Billy Gillis-Harry, national president of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria, called for steps to prevent tanker accidents at retail outlets.

He identified ongoing training, good supervision, better infrastructure, modern technology, and strict operations as vital for accident prevention.

Speaking for the participants, Emmanuel Omokero, national assistant secretary of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers’ branch of NUPENG, praised the organizers. He noted the training was the first of its kind in Warri and urged drivers to avoid night trips and rest when tired.

Godwin Ikomi, Delta coordinator of NMDPRA, confirmed that the awareness program will continue. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that representatives from government agencies, security, and emergency response groups attended the event. Others present included tanker drivers, petroleum marketers, depot operators, and truck owners.