In a bid to enhance road safety and ensure compliance with insurance regulations, the Nigeria Police Force has begun enforcing mandatory Third Party Insurance for all vehicles on Nigerian roads. This initiative, which took effect on February 1, 2025, is backed by the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and is in compliance with Section 68 of the Insurance Act and Section 312 of the 1945 Motor Vehicle (Third Party Insurance) Act.

The enforcement of Third Party Insurance is a significant step towards reducing the number of uninsured vehicles on Nigerian roads. According to the Nigeria Police Force, vehicles without valid Third Party Insurance will be impounded, and owners will face penalties or fines as mandated by law.

Benefits of Third Party Insurance

The Third Party Insurance policy provides financial protection to motorists and third parties in case of accidents. This policy is essential for all vehicle owners, as it helps to cover the costs of damages or injuries caused to others in the event of an accident.

In addition to providing financial protection, the Third Party Insurance policy also includes coverage under the ECOWAS Brown Card Scheme for travel within West African countries. This means that vehicle owners with valid Third Party Insurance can travel to other West African countries without worrying about insurance coverage.

Insurance Procurement

Vehicle owners can purchase Third Party Insurance from licensed insurance companies. The cost of the policy starts at 15,000 Naira, making it relatively affordable for most vehicle owners. The policy can be processed quickly, often within 24 hours, making it convenient for vehicle owners to obtain the necessary insurance coverage.

Public Reaction

The introduction of mandatory Third Party Insurance has received a mixed reaction from the public. Some individuals have expressed concerns about potential exploitation by police officers for extortion, while others see this move as a step towards safer roads.

Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their opinions on the matter. Some have praised the government for taking steps to improve road safety, while others have expressed concerns about the potential for corruption and exploitation.

Collaboration and Enforcement

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the Nigeria Police Force to ensure strict enforcement of the Third Party Insurance policy across all states and the Federal Capital Territory. The Police Force has set up teams to enforce the policy and conduct public sensitization campaigns to educate vehicle owners about the importance of Third Party Insurance.

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has also backed the enforcement of the Third Party Insurance policy. NAICOM has emphasized the benefits of the policy, including financial protection for motorists and third parties, and has encouraged vehicle owners to obtain the necessary insurance coverage.

Conclusion

The introduction of mandatory Third Party Insurance for vehicles in Nigeria is a significant step towards enhancing road safety and ensuring compliance with insurance regulations. While there may be concerns about potential exploitation and corruption, the benefits of the policy far outweigh the risks.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to obtain the necessary insurance coverage to avoid penalties and fines. With the support of the Nigeria Police Force and NAICOM, the enforcement of Third Party Insurance is expected to improve road safety and reduce the number of uninsured vehicles on Nigerian roads.