The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, proposing a ₦50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The bill, which is awaiting presidential assent, also provides for a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both, for motorists who refuse to cooperate with Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officials during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion.
Passed by the Senate on Thursday, the amended legislation introduces tougher penalties for several traffic offences as part of efforts to improve compliance with road safety regulations and reduce road crashes across Nigeria.
Under the proposed law, individuals found hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles would be liable to a ₦50,000 fine upon conviction. Lawmakers said the measure was aimed at reducing distractions in public transport vehicles and improving commuter safety.
The amendment also increases the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating substances from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000. Offenders may also face up to two years’ imprisonment or both penalties.
Motorists who fail to cooperate with FRSC personnel conducting preliminary roadside breath tests based on reasonable suspicion would face a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both.
The proposed legislation further raises penalties for traffic violations, including disobeying traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings and other traffic control devices, to ₦100,000.
Speed limit violations, previously punishable by a ₦5,000 fine, would attract a ₦100,000 penalty under the amendment. Reckless driving would also carry a ₦100,000 fine, a maximum of two years’ imprisonment, or both.
The revised schedule of offences under the bill contains 52 traffic violations and their corresponding penalties.
According to the Senate, the review is intended to strengthen the enforcement powers of the FRSC, promote compliance with traffic regulations and improve safety on Nigerian roads.
