By Oluwaseye Ogunsanya
In a bid to enhance road safety and ensure compliance with insurance regulations, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) through a directive, issued by Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector-general of police (IGP), has commenced the enforcement of mandatory third-party vehicle insurance across the country, effective February 1, 2025.
“In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., the Nigeria Police Force once again reiterates the enforcement of the Mandatory Third Party Insurance which will commence on February 1st, 2025. This initiative aims to reinforce road safety measures and ensure that all vehicle owners comply with the stipulated insurance requirements to protect themselves and others on the road.” Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force public relations officer said in a statement released last Friday.
WHAT IS THIRD-PARTY INSURANCE?
Third-party vehicle insurance is a legal requirement in Nigeria that provides financial protection for damages or injuries caused to third parties by an insured vehicle. This insurance covers liabilities such as physical injuries, property damage, and even death resulting from accidents involving the insured vehicle. According to the Insurance Act of 2003 and the Motor Vehicle (Third Party) Insurance Act of 1945, all vehicle owners are mandated to possess valid third-party insurance before operating their vehicles on public roads.
WHAT ARE THE OBJECTIVES OF THIS ENFORCEMENT?
This initiative aims to reinforce road safety measures by ensuring that all vehicle owners adhere to the stipulated insurance requirements. By doing so, the police hope to protect both motorists and other road users, promoting accountability in the event of accidents. Police spokespersons across different states have emphasized that the enforcement is designed to safeguard everyone on the road.
WHO IS AFFECTED BY THIS POLICY?
The enforcement applies to all vehicle owners across Nigeria. Police commissioners in various states, including Lagos, Kogi, Akwa Ibom, and Kaduna, have publicly communicated the necessity for motorists to obtain valid third-party insurance. Those without insurance are urged to secure it immediately to avoid penalties.
WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE?
The police have warned that failure to comply with the third-party insurance requirement will lead to strict enforcement actions, which may include fines, imprisonment, or both. Specifically, Section 68 of the Insurance Act states that individuals who contravene this regulation could face a fine of up to N250,000 or a one-year imprisonment term or both.
HOW IS THE ENFORCEMENT BEING CARRIED OUT?
Police teams are actively monitoring compliance in various states. For instance, in Lagos, Police Commissioner Olanrewaju Ishola has instructed officers to execute their duties with professionalism while being firm. Similar directives have been issued in Kogi and Akwa Ibom, where local police officials are leading monitoring teams to ensure adherence to the law. Officers are expected to impound vehicles that do not comply with the insurance requirement and will not release them until the owners fulfill the legal obligation.
Similarly, the police have urged the public to cooperate fully with the enforcement teams, highlighting that compliance is not only a legal obligation but also a crucial step toward ensuring road safety. In Akwa Ibom, Police Commissioner Baba Azare noted the importance of community awareness and described ongoing sensitization efforts to familiarize the public with the insurance requirements.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR ROAD SAFETY IN NIGERIA?
This enforcement initiative is expected to significantly impact road safety in Nigeria. By mandating third-party insurance, the government aims to create a more accountable driving environment, reducing the financial burden on victims of road accidents and ensuring that vehicle owners are adequately insured. The police believe that widespread adherence to these regulations will ultimately lead to safer roads for all users.
