By Abdulsalam Abdullah
The Major Oil Marketers Association, (MEMAN), Federal Road Safety Corps, (FRSC) and Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, (NMDPRA) have convened to address the recent surge in truck accidents in 2024.
The meeting was aimed to find solutions to this pressing issue and improve road safety in the country.
In attendance was the Executive Secretary, Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN).
The meeting, which was aimed to address the alarming rise in truck accidents this year, yielded several key takeaways to improve truck safety on the roads.
MEMAN, in collaboration with FRSC and NMDPRA, has committed to implementing various measures to enhance truck safety.
These include mandatory annual training for drivers and biannual truck integrity evaluations at FRSC-approved centers, phasing out old trucks in favor of new ones with advanced safety features, and ensuring no trucks older than 15 years transport dangerous goods.
Additionally, the group planned to leverage technology by implementing on-board computers, tracking devices, and intelligent cameras to monitor and enhance road safety, with control centers established for 24/7 truck monitoring.
They will also identify and address critical road infrastructure issues, emphasise the importance of truck maintenance, and advocate for the reduction of truck sizes.
NMDPRA will update truck specifications, monitor compliance, and approve new safety technologies, while FRSC will enforce strict Safe-To-Load (STL) inspections and driver’s qualifications.
Regular campaigns will be conducted to promote safe driving culture and enhance driver welfare to protect both assets and lives.
Through this collaborative effort, MEMAN, FRSC, and NMDPRA are paving the way for safer roads and better transportation practices in Nigeria.
The commitment is a significant step towards reducing the number of accidents and ensuring the safety of lives and assets.