Senate Increases Traffic Offense Fines in New Bill

On Thursday, the Nigerian Senate passed the Federal Road Safety Corps Amendment Bill 2026, which aims to strengthen road safety enforcement across the country by increasing fines for 52 traffic offenses. The bill is now awaiting presidential assent.

It seeks to enhance the enforcement powers of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and improve compliance with traffic regulations to reduce road crashes. Key provisions of the bill include a N50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking or trading inside commercial vehicles, and a six-month imprisonment for motorists who refuse to cooperate with FRSC officials during roadside breath tests conducted on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The proposed amendments also raise penalties for disobeying traffic lights and road signs to N100,000, while reckless driving will incur a fine of N100,000 and a potential two-year imprisonment. The amendments reflect a comprehensive review aimed at enhancing road safety in Nigeria.