The Senate has passed the Federal Road Safety Corps (Amendment) Bill, 2026, proposing a N50,000 fine for anyone convicted of hawking, trading or preaching inside commercial vehicles as part of efforts to improve road safety across the country.

The bill, which was passed on Thursday and is awaiting presidential assent, also prescribes a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both, for motorists who refuse to cooperate with Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officials conducting roadside breath tests based on reasonable suspicion.

The proposed legislation introduces stiffer penalties for a wide range of traffic offences, with lawmakers saying the amendments are intended to strengthen compliance with road safety regulations and reduce road crashes nationwide.

Under the bill, any person found hawking, trading or preaching inside a commercial vehicle commits an offence and, upon conviction, will be liable to a N50,000 fine. The Senate said the provision was introduced to eliminate distractions in commercial vehicles and improve the safety of passengers.

The amendment also increases the penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating drugs from N5,000 to N100,000. Offenders would, in addition, face up to two years’ imprisonment or both the fine and jail term upon conviction.

Motorists who fail to cooperate with FRSC officials during preliminary roadside breath tests carried out on reasonable suspicion would also be liable to a N50,000 fine, six months’ imprisonment, or both.

The bill further raises the sanction for disobeying traffic lights, road signs, pavement markings and other traffic control devices to N100,000.

Similarly, the penalty for exceeding speed limits has been increased from N5,000 to N100,000, while reckless driving will attract a N100,000 fine, up to two years’ imprisonment, or both.

The amended legislation contains a revised schedule of 52 traffic offences and their corresponding penalties.

According to the Senate, the review is designed to strengthen the FRSC’s enforcement powers, improve adherence to traffic regulations and enhance safety on Nigerian roads.