President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Niger State following the tragic petrol tanker explosion on the Bida-Agaie-Lapai road, which claimed the lives of 48 people and 50 livestock on Sunday.
The accident, which involved a petrol tanker and a truck carrying cattle and passengers, also left many injured. This was confirmed by the Niger Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, President Tinubu expressed deep sympathy for the families of those who lost their lives and those injured. He also extended his condolences to shop owners affected by the tragedy, while praying for the swift recovery of the injured.
The President praised the prompt response of federal and state emergency agencies, as well as the efforts of well-meaning Nigerians who assisted at the scene of the incident. He assured that his administration will continue to support relief efforts for those affected.
In a bid to prevent future occurrences, President Tinubu has directed relevant federal agencies, particularly in transportation and road infrastructure, to collaborate with state governments to improve the safety and security of travelers and residents across the country.