Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating fuel tanker explosion in Magama Local Government Area of Niger State that claimed dozens of lives and injured scores earlier this week. In a statement issued Wednesday, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Dr Betta Edu, conveyed the government’s condolences to victims’ families and ordered an immediate nationwide safety awareness campaign on fuel transport and handling.
The tragic incident, described as one of the worst road disasters in recent months, occurred when a loaded tanker overturned and exploded, destroying nearby vehicles, shops and residential buildings. President Bola Tinubu, through his spokesperson, extended sympathy to the Niger State Government and directed emergency agencies to provide medical and relief support to survivors.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have since been deployed to the scene for recovery and damage assessment. Minister Edu said the tragedy underscores the urgency of enforcing safety compliance among fuel transporters and addressing poor road conditions that exacerbate such accidents.
She further disclosed that an inter-ministerial committee will be set up to develop a long-term mitigation strategy, including improved driver training, stricter licensing, and better emergency response coordination.
