🔥 Trending Senate Clarifies FRSC Amendment Bill: Preaching and Hawking on Commercial Vehicl

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, 2026, recently passed by the Nigerian Senate, introduces significant changes to the nation's road traffic enforcement framework ¹⁴. The primary aim of this legislation is to implement stiffer penalties for a wide range of traffic offenses, with the goal of enhancing road safety and deterring violations ¹²⁶.

Key Provisions and Penalties

The bill proposes a substantial increase in fines and, in some cases, introduces or extends jail terms for various traffic infractions. Here are some of the notable changes:

Fines for Distractions in Commercial Vehicles

One of the most discussed aspects of the bill is the proposed ₦50,000 fine for individuals convicted of hawking, trading, or preaching inside commercial vehicles ^1257910. This provision aims to address distractions that can compromise safety within public transport ⁴⁸.

Increased Penalties for Drunk Driving

The bill raises penalties for drunk driving to ₦100,000 and includes potential imprisonment of up to two years ¹. This reflects a more stringent approach to combating impaired driving.

General Increase in Traffic Fines

Overall, the legislation is expected to raise traffic fines by as much as 300% across various offenses ³. This substantial increase is intended to serve as a stronger deterrent against traffic violations.

Legislative Process and Current Status

The Federal Road Safety Corps Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026, (HBs. 1401 & 1604 - For Concurrence) was first read in the Senate on July 1, 2025 ³. It was officially passed by the Senate on July 16, 2026 ⁴⁵¹⁰.

Currently, the bill awaits presidential assent to become law ⁴⁶⁸. Once assented to by President Bola Tinubu, it will mark a major overhaul of Nigeria's road traffic regulations ⁴⁸.

Impact and Rationale

The introduction of these tougher penalties is a move by the Nigerian government to curb the high incidence of road accidents and improve driver and passenger behavior ¹⁴. Proponents of the bill argue that the increased fines and potential jail terms will compel greater compliance with traffic laws, ultimately leading to safer roads ³. The focus on distractions within commercial vehicles also highlights a recognition of their potential contribution to unsafe conditions ⁴.