The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has praised President Bola Tinubu’s decision.
The ban targets trucks carrying over 60,000 litres of petroleum products, aiming to prevent tanker accidents and explosions.
Starting March 1, 2025, trucks exceeding 60,000 litres will be prohibited from loading petroleum products at all depots nationwide.
By the fourth quarter of 2025, trucks carrying more than 45,000 litres will also face additional operational restrictions.
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) led a stakeholders’ roundtable supporting this critical decision.
Key industry players, including NARTO, SON, MEMAN, DSS, Nigeria Police, and Federal Fire Service, endorsed the regulation.
Safety Concerns Drive Policy Shift
Reports show petroleum trucks caused multiple accidents, killing over 493 people and injuring many others within three years.
The poor condition of Nigerian roads significantly contributed to these accidents, prompting urgent regulatory intervention from relevant authorities.
In a statement, PETROAN’s National Public Relations Officer, Dr. Joseph Obele, praised President Tinubu’s safety-driven initiative.
“President Tinubu’s passion for prioritising Nigerian lives inspired this decision, demonstrating his commitment to national well-being.”
Potential Economic Fallout
Despite backing the safety initiative, PETROAN warned the ban could result in substantial economic and employment losses.
Thousands of trucks owned by NARTO, DAPMAN, PTD, NUPENG, MEMAN, and PETROAN will be directly affected.
Over 100,000 workers—including drivers, conductors, mechanics, and supervisors—depend on these trucks for their livelihoods.
“The ban risks widespread job losses, affecting many who rely directly or indirectly on petroleum transportation,” PETROAN stated.
Calls for Government Intervention
To minimise the ban’s economic impact, PETROAN President Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry urged government intervention and support.
He appealed for cushioning measures, particularly for small-scale businesses and truck owners facing potential financial hardship.
Additionally, Dr. Gillis-Harry encouraged stakeholders to comply with regulations while awaiting government mitigation strategies.
