The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has announced a ban on the operation of 60,000-litre fuel tankers on Nigerian roads, citing safety concerns and the need to reduce accidents involving large tanker trucks.

The ban, which takes effect on March 1, is aimed at improving road safety and reducing the risk of accidents involving large fuel tankers. According to Ogbugo Ukoha, NMDPRA executive director of distribution systems. The decision was made after a thorough review of the risks associated with the use of large fuel tankers on Nigerian roads.

“The authority is committed to ensuring the safe transportation of petroleum products across the country,” he said. The ban is expected to affect a significant number of fuel tankers currently operating in Nigeria, and transporters have been advised to adjust their operations accordingly.

The NMDPRA has also announced plans to increase the number of loading depots and storage facilities across the country, in order to reduce the need for large fuel tankers on the roads.