The Federal Government is deploying cutting-edge technology to combat the recurring menace of fuel tanker explosions that have claimed hundreds of lives across Nigeria.
Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo unveiled the plan Tuesday at a stakeholders’ forum on oil and gas sector safety, emphasizing Nigeria’s urgent need for modern fire prevention systems.
“We must leverage smart fire detection, automated suppression tech, emergency drones, and data-driven risk assessment,” the minister stated, announcing policy support for tech adoption while urging private sector collaboration.
Dr. Mustapha Lamorde of the Petroleum Regulatory Authority revealed grim figures: 169 tanker fires since 2009, with transit incidents causing 60% of downstream sector fire deaths. The January 2025 Suleja tragedy alone killed over 100 people during attempted fuel scavenging.
The forum concluded with commitments to accelerate tech integration in fire response, strengthen regulations for fuel transportation and enhance public awareness on explosion risks.
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