End-of-Year Energy Operations: Safety First In A Season Of High Demand

By Oluwabukola Jimoh ــ Last Update 08 December 2025

As the year draws to a close, Nigeria’s energy sector enters one of its busiest and most demanding periods. The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Abeokuta Field Office, has once again reminded stakeholders that safety must remain the top priority, especially for tanker drivers transporting highly inflammable products such as gas and petroleum. With temperatures soaring unusually high this season, the risks of accidents and hazardous incidents are even greater, making vigilance and patience on the road more critical than ever.

During a sensitization engagement in Abeokuta themed “Impatience in Petroleum Supply and Distribution Operations: Assessing The Risks and Dangers Ahead of the Festive Season”, Dr. Akinyemi Atilola, State Coordinator of NMDPRA, emphasized that impatience and disregard for safety standards have tragically cost many tanker drivers their lives. The festive season, he noted, often brings heightened demand, long queues, and pressure to meet delivery targets, conditions that can easily lead to unsafe practices, panic buying, and improper handling of products.

Dr. Atilola stressed that safety and compliance are shared responsibilities across the industry. The Authority’s goal, he explained, is not to impose penalties but to achieve 100% compliance and zero accidents. “Impatience can cost lives, the environment, and investments,” he warned, urging drivers, marketers, depot operators, and LPG dealers to slow down, act safely, and prioritize discipline over speed or profit.

Supporting this message, Chibuzo Akubueze, Head of Health, Safety, Environment and Community (HSEC), highlighted that human error accounts for nearly 85% of tanker crashes. Mechanical failures, overloading, poor road infrastructure, and harsh weather conditions further compound the risks. She called for continuous training, defensive driving, regular vehicle checks, and strict monitoring to prevent drug use, while also stressing the importance of adequate rest for drivers.

Other stakeholders echoed the call for safety. The Ogun State Fire Service urged drivers to equip vehicles with functional fire extinguishers and avoid excessive trips driven by profit motives. The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment encouraged vigilance and adherence to road safety standards. Meanwhile, NMDPRA enforcement teams have been active across Abeokuta, sensitizing residents about the dangers of patronizing unauthorized gas dealers and shutting down illegal operations to prevent potential explosions.

Why Safety Matters More Than Ever

This festive season coincides with unusually high temperatures, which increase the volatility of petroleum and LPG products. Heat intensifies the risk of leaks, fires, and explosions, making strict adherence to safety protocols non-negotiable. Tanker drivers and operators must recognize that every shortcut taken under pressure could have devastating consequences not only for themselves but for communities along their routes.

The Way Forward

To ensure a safe and accident-free season, stakeholders must:

Exercise patience and discipline in supply and distribution operations.

Conduct regular vehicle checks and avoid overloading.

Equip all vehicles with fire extinguishers and emergency response tools.

Invest in continuous training for drivers and technicians.

Strengthen collaboration among NMDPRA, FRSC, TRACE, IPMAN, PTD, MOMAN, and other agencies.

Educate the public on safe storage and discourage patronage of unauthorized gas dealers.

As demand peaks and temperatures rise, safety must remain the guiding principle for Nigeria’s energy sector. The festive season should be a time of celebration, not tragedy. By slowing down, complying with standards, and working together, stakeholders can ensure that petroleum and LPG operations remain safe, efficient, and hazard-free. The message is clear: patience saves lives, and safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Share on Social Media:

Are you setting up, or do you need LPG information? Get started with our LPG and CNG Webinars!

Do you need LPG Depot Prices and Mont Belvieu Prices Data Sheet (2019 till date)? Get Access here!

Oluwabukola Jimoh

Oluwabukola Jimoh is a dynamic academic writer and captivating energy blogger. She is able to delve into intricate subjects with an insatiable thirst for knowledge, crafting thought-provoking essays that engage and enlighten her readers.