In a sweeping enforcement drive aimed at enhancing road safety and ensuring vehicle owners comply with legal requirements, the Nigeria Police Force has begun nationwide enforcement of the Third-Party Insurance Policy. The crackdown, which commenced on February 1, 2025, aligns with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and is being implemented across multiple states, including Lagos, Kogi, and Akwa Ibom.
The initiative, which mandates all vehicle owners to possess valid third-party insurance, is designed to protect both motorists and road users, promote accountability, and reduce financial losses from road accidents. The police have warned that defaulters risk severe legal consequences, including vehicle impoundment and prosecution.
Statewide Enforcement in Full Swing
In Kogi State, Commissioner of Police Miller Dantawaye emphasized the need for full compliance, stating that officers have been directed to strictly enforce the policy. Speaking through the command’s spokesperson, SP Williams Ovye-Aya, Dantawaye warned that non-compliance would attract legal penalties. He also urged motorists to cooperate with law enforcement officers to avoid unnecessary challenges.
Similarly, in Lagos, Commissioner of Police Olanrewaju Ishola reiterated that vehicle owners must have at least third-party insurance, warning that those without valid coverage would face fines and penalties. “This initiative aims to ensure that vehicle owners adhere to stipulated insurance requirements, safeguarding themselves and other road users,” Ishola stated in a release by the command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin. The Lagos command also assured the public that enforcement officers would remain professional and courteous while carrying out their duties.
High Compliance Rate in Akwa Ibom
In Akwa Ibom, Commissioner of Police Baba Azare led a monitoring team through Uyo and Ikot Ekpene to assess compliance levels. Azare noted that the enforcement exercise was backed by Section 68 of the Insurance Act and Section 312 of the 1945 Motor Vehicle Third Party Insurance Act. “So far, so good—most of the areas we visited show high compliance,” he said. However, vehicles without valid third-party insurance were impounded, and their owners were required to provide proof of compliance before reclaiming them. The Akwa Ibom command attributed the high compliance rate to prior sensitization meetings with stakeholders.
Implications for Road Users
The nationwide enforcement drive is expected to reduce financial burdens arising from road accidents, as third-party insurance provides compensation for damages to other road users. Analysts believe this policy will also curb reckless driving, as motorists will be more accountable for their actions.
However, some road users have expressed concerns about the execution of the enforcement, fearing that corrupt officers might exploit the directive for personal gain. In response, the police leadership has assured the public that officers will adhere to professionalism and standard procedures, urging citizens to report any misconduct.
A Continuous Exercise
The Nigeria Police Force has made it clear that this enforcement is not a one-time operation but a continuous exercise. Authorities in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory are expected to implement similar crackdowns to ensure nationwide compliance. Vehicle owners without third-party insurance are advised to obtain valid policies immediately to avoid fines, penalties, or legal action.
As the enforcement intensifies, the onus remains on motorists to ensure they comply with the law, thereby contributing to safer roads and a more structured vehicle insurance system in Nigeria.
