The Senate, on Thursday, passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Amendment Bill, 2026, approving stricter sanctions on a broad range of traffic offences, including a proposed N50,000 fine for anyone caught hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles.
The legislation, which now awaits presidential assent, seeks to strengthen road safety enforcement by significantly increasing penalties for several traffic violations while expanding the enforcement powers of the FRSC.
The amendment bill, formally titled the Federal Road Safety Corps Act (Amendment), 2026 (HBs. 1401 & 1604 – For Concurrence), was introduced in the Senate for first reading on July 1, 2026.
One of its most notable provisions prescribes a ₦50,000 fine for any individual convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial buses. Lawmakers said the measure is aimed at reducing distractions that could endanger passengers and drivers during transit.
If signed into law, the provision would affect a long-standing practice in many Nigerian cities where traders and religious preachers routinely enter commercial buses to sell goods or deliver sermons.
The proposed amendment also introduces substantial increases in penalties for several road traffic offences.
Motorists found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs would face a ₦100,000 fine, replacing the previous ₦5,000 penalty. Convicted offenders could also be sentenced to up to two years in prison, or both.
The legislation 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 affects proper control of a vehicle.
The bill further makes it an offence for motorists to refuse roadside breath tests conducted by FRSC officials.
Drivers who decline to undergo a preliminary breath test when there is reasonable suspicion could face a ₦50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both.
Lawmakers said the provision is intended to strengthen the FRSC’s ability to detect and prosecute cases involving impaired driving.
The amendment also proposes a ₦100,000 fine for motorists who ignore traffic lights, road signs, road markings or other traffic control devices.
Similarly, the penalty for exceeding speed limits would increase from ₦5,000 to ₦100,000 under the proposed law.
Reckless driving would also attract a ₦100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.
52 traffic offences reviewed
According to details of the amended legislation, the Act now contains a revised schedule covering 52 traffic offences and their corresponding penalties.
The Senate said the review is intended to improve compliance with road traffic regulations, enhance the enforcement capacity of the FRSC and reduce accidents on Nigerian roads.
