The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, 2026, introducing tougher penalties for traffic-related offences, including a proposed ₦50,000 fine for anyone caught hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial buses.
The bill, which is awaiting presidential assent, seeks to strengthen road safety enforcement, improve compliance with traffic laws and reduce road accidents across the country.
The proposed legislation, titled Federal Road Safety Corps Act (Amendment), 2026 (HBs. 1401 & 1604), was first read in the Senate on July 1, 2026, before securing approval.
Under the new provisions, individuals convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles will be liable to a ₦50,000 fine. Lawmakers said the measure is intended to reduce distractions in public transport and enhance passenger safety.
If signed into law, the amendment is expected to affect the widespread practice of traders and religious preachers boarding commercial buses in many Nigerian cities.
The bill also proposes significantly higher penalties for several traffic offences.
Motorists found driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs would face a ₦100,000 fine, a sharp increase from the previous ₦5,000 penalty. Convicted offenders may also be sentenced to up to two years imprisonment, or both imprisonment and a fine.
The law applies to anyone driving or attempting to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs beyond the legal limit or in a condition that impairs safe control of a vehicle.
Another major provision makes it an offence to refuse a roadside breath test. Drivers who decline to undergo a preliminary breath test requested by FRSC personnel on reasonable suspicion could face a ₦50,000 fine, six months imprisonment, or both.
The amendment also raises the penalty for disobeying traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings and other traffic control devices to ₦100,000.
Similarly, the fine for exceeding speed limits has been increased from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000, while reckless driving now attracts a ₦100,000 fine, up to two years imprisonment, or both.
The revised legislation includes an updated schedule listing 52 traffic offences and their corresponding penalties.
According to the Senate, the amendment is aimed at improving adherence to traffic regulations, strengthening the enforcement powers of the Federal Road Safety Corps, and reducing road crashes across Nigeria.
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