The Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) has taken a significant step towards improving road safety by holding a critical meeting with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). This meeting was also attended by the Executive Secretary of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) and addressed the alarming rise in truck accidents across the country.
During the meeting, several key measures were agreed upon to enhance truck safety and transportation practices. It was decided that all truck drivers must undergo mandatory annual training sessions to ensure they are equipped with the latest safety knowledge. Additionally, trucks will be required to undergo biannual integrity evaluations at FRSC-approved centers to maintain high safety standards.
A significant focus was placed on modernizing the fleet of trucks operating on Nigerian roads. It was agreed that older trucks would be phased out and replaced with newer models equipped with advanced safety features. Specifically, trucks older than 15 years will no longer be permitted to transport dangerous goods.
Technology will play a crucial role in these safety enhancements. The introduction of on-board computers, tracking devices, and intelligent cameras was approved to monitor and improve road safety. Control centers will be established to provide 24/7 monitoring of truck movements, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Addressing critical road infrastructure issues was also a priority. The stakeholders emphasized the importance of regular truck maintenance and advocated for reducing the sizes of trucks to minimize risks on the roads. This initiative aims to tackle the root causes of many truck accidents.
Regulatory actions were another important aspect of the discussion. The NMDPRA will update truck specifications and monitor compliance with new safety technologies. The FRSC will enforce strict Safe-To-Load (STL) inspections and ensure that all drivers meet necessary qualifications.
Public awareness campaigns will be conducted regularly to promote a culture of safe driving. These campaigns will focus on enhancing driver welfare and protecting both assets and lives on the roads. The collaborative efforts between MEMAN, FRSC, NMDPRA, and DAPPMAN aim to create a safer environment for all road users in Nigeria.
The Executive Secretary of MEMAN expressed optimism about the impact of these initiatives, stating, “Our collaborative efforts are paving the way for safer roads and better transportation practices in Nigeria. By working together, we can ensure the safety of our drivers and the public.”
This partnership marks a significant milestone in addressing the challenges of truck safety in Nigeria. As these initiatives are implemented, continuous monitoring and improvements will be made to ensure their effectiveness. Updates on the progress of these safety measures will be shared regularly as MEMAN, FRSC, and NMDPRA continue to prioritize road safety.
For more information and updates, stay tuned as we work towards a safer future for Nigeria’s roads. #MEMANEvolution #BetterTogether
This concerted effort underscores the commitment of these organizations to reduce truck accidents and enhance overall road safety, ensuring that both drivers and the public benefit from safer transportation practices.