Nigerian Senate Passes Safety Bill with N50,000 Bus Fine

The Nigerian Senate has passed a comprehensive amendment to the Federal Road Safety Corps Act, introducing significantly stiffer penalties for a wide range of traffic offences, including a 50,000 naira fine for preaching, hawking, or trading inside commercial vehicles. The legislation, passed on July 16, 2026, and now awaiting presidential assent, aims to strengthen road safety enforcement and deter dangerous behaviors on the nation's roads.

The amended bill, known as the Federal Road Safety Corps Amendment Bill, 2026, raises fines for numerous violations. Lawmakers explained that the provision against activities inside commercial vehicles is intended to reduce driver distractions and improve commuter safety. The legislation also dramatically increases the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, raising the fine from 5,000 naira to 100,000 naira, with offenders also facing up to two years imprisonment or both penalties.

Motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials conducting roadside breath tests based on reasonable suspicion will now be liable for a 50,000 naira fine, six months imprisonment, or both. Other key increases include raising the fine...