Nigeria Fire Service chief urges safety overhaul after latest fuel tanker tragedy

Following Saturday’s devastating fuel tanker explosion in Niger State, which claimed over 70 lives and injured many others, the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji, has called for immediate action to address reckless driving and improve safety protocols for fuel transportation.

The explosion occurred on Dikko-Maje Road, opposite Badeggi Filling Station, in Suleja LGA. According to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the tragedy began when a tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) crashed.

During an attempt to transfer fuel to another tanker using a generator, spilled PMS ignited, resulting in a catastrophic explosion. Many victims were gathering to scoop fuel.

In an interview, Jaji emphasized the urgent need for tanker operators to regulate driver behavior, particularly on dangerous roads.

Highlighting the rising frequency of fuel-related accidents, he stated, “Fuel vapors and leaks can ignite at any moment. Your life is worth more than a few liters of fuel.”

He strongly urged the public to avoid tanker accident sites and instead alert the Federal Fire Service for timely intervention.

Jaji also warned fuel station operators, gas refilling plant workers, and the public about the importance of adhering to safety protocols, noting that even minor sparks can lead to deadly consequences.

He condoled the families of the victims, praising first responders for their efforts and underscoring the need for public awareness campaigns to prevent future incidents.

Additionally, Jaji advocated for modernizing the outdated Fire Service Act of 1963, currently under review in the National Assembly, to address contemporary fire safety challenges effectively. “Every life is precious, and we must do everything in our power to protect our citizens,” he concluded.