Minister outlines steps to prevent fuel tanker explosions
The Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has proposed measures to prevent future fuel tanker explosions following recent incidents in Niger and Enugu states.
The explosions, which resulted in the loss of lives, have drawn renewed attention to safety concerns surrounding fuel transportation in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Director of Media and Corporate Communications at the National Space Research and Development Agency, Dr. Felix Ale, Nnaji extended his condolences to the families affected by the disasters.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones in this tragic event. We also extend our wishes for a swift recovery to those injured,” he said.
The minister stressed the urgent need for robust measures to enhance the safety of fuel transportation. He outlined several strategies aimed at reducing the risks of future fuel tanker explosions.
Nnaji proposed that routine maintenance and inspections of fuel tankers be mandated to ensure they meet safety standards, which would help mitigate mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions.
He also called for the implementation of comprehensive driver training programmes, stressing safe driving practices and emergency response procedures.
“These measures are crucial to ensure that fuel tankers operate safely and efficiently on the roads,” he stated.
The minister also stressed the importance of educating the public about the dangers of fuel scooping, urging for nationwide campaigns to raise awareness about the risks of explosions and health issues.
“We must inform the public about the hazards associated with collecting fuel from accident scenes,” he said.
Additionally, he proposed emergency response education, advising communities on how to act safely when witnessing fuel spills.
Nnaji also suggested infrastructure improvements to reduce the risk of accidents.
These include the establishment of dedicated parking bays for tanker drivers to combat fatigue-related accidents and the removal of roadblocks on hilly roads, which pose significant dangers to large vehicles navigating steep inclines.
“Roadblocks on hilly roads must be addressed to prevent further accidents,” he added.
Nnaji also proposed the adoption of advanced technologies, such as inert gas systems in fuel tankers, to prevent explosions by reducing the presence of flammable vapours.
He called for the development and use of explosion-resistant fuel containers equipped with passive protection modules.
“Technology can play a pivotal role in ensuring the safe transportation of fuel and other hazardous materials,” Nnaji added.
Drawing on international examples, Nnaji highlighted the success of smart transportation systems in countries like Japan, Germany, and Tanzania, which use GPS tracking, real-time monitoring, and automated alerts to prevent accidents.
He pointed to the success of such technologies in Tanzania, which enforced stricter regulations and launched public education campaigns following a devastating tanker explosion.
Nnaji reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to collaborating with relevant agencies and stakeholders to implement these safety measures.
He said, “By adopting these strategies, we aim to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety of our citizens.”
