The Nigerian Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, 2026, introducing tougher sanctions for a range of traffic-related offences, including a proposed N50,000 fine for individuals who preach, hawk or engage in trading inside commercial vehicles.
The legislation, approved on Thursday, is now awaiting presidential assent before it can become law.
The proposed amendment is designed to strengthen the enforcement powers of the FRSC, promote compliance with traffic regulations and reduce road crashes by imposing stiffer penalties on offenders.
Under the bill, anyone convicted of preaching, hawking or trading inside a commercial vehicle would be liable to a fine of N50,000. Lawmakers said the measure is intended to minimise activities capable of distracting drivers and endangering passengers.
The bill also prescribes a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both, for motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials conducting roadside breath tests based on reasonable suspicion.
In addition, the Senate approved a significant increase in the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances. If the bill is signed into law, offenders will face a N100,000 fine instead of the current N5,000 penalty, alongside a possible two-year jail term or both.
The amendment further raises the punishment for violating traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings and other traffic control devices to N100,000.
Motorists found exceeding speed limits would also face a N100,000 fine, replacing the existing N5,000 penalty. Reckless driving would attract the same N100,000 fine, with offenders also liable to imprisonment for up to two years or both.
According to the revised schedule attached to the bill, a total of 52 traffic offences have been reviewed, with corresponding penalties increased to reflect the government’s renewed focus on road safety.
The Senate said the amendments are aimed at improving compliance with traffic laws, enhancing the FRSC’s enforcement capacity and making Nigerian roads safer for all users.
