The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, proposing a N50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The bill, passed on Thursday, is aimed at strengthening road safety enforcement and reducing distractions that could endanger drivers and passengers. It now awaits presidential assent.
If signed into law, motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests carried out on reasonable suspicion could face a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both.
The proposed legislation also increases penalties for several traffic offences. The fine for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs would rise from N5,000 to N100,000, with offenders also liable to up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.
In addition, the bill raises the penalty for disobeying traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings and other traffic control devices to N100,000.
Motorists who exceed speed limits would also face a N100,000 fine, up from the current N5,000, while reckless driving would attract a N100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.
According to the Senate, the amendment contains 52 traffic offences and their corresponding penalties as part of efforts to strengthen the enforcement powers of the Federal Road Safety Corps, improve compliance with traffic laws and enhance safety on Nigerian roads.
