The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introducing stiffer penalties for several traffic offences, including a proposed ₦50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading, or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The bill, which is currently awaiting presidential assent, is part of efforts to strengthen road safety enforcement, improve compliance with traffic regulations, and reduce road accidents across the country.
Under the proposed law, individuals found hawking, trading, or preaching inside commercial vehicles will be liable to a ₦50,000 fine upon conviction. Lawmakers say the measure is intended to reduce distractions that could endanger drivers and passengers.
The amendment also introduces tougher sanctions for motorists who fail to cooperate with officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) during roadside breath tests conducted on reasonable suspicion. Offenders could face a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both.
In addition, the bill raises the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000. Convicted offenders may also face up to two years’ imprisonment, or both a fine and imprisonment.
The proposed legislation further increases the penalty for disobeying traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings, and other traffic control devices to ₦100,000.
Motorists who exceed speed limits will also face a ₦100,000 fine, replacing the previous ₦5,000 penalty. Similarly, reckless driving will attract a ₦100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both, depending on the circumstances.
According to the amended bill, a total of 52 traffic offences have been reviewed with updated penalties. The Senate says the changes are designed to strengthen the FRSC’s enforcement powers, promote safer driving habits, and enhance road safety nationwide.
The bill will only become law after it receives presidential assent.
