The Nigeria Police Force has commenced a nationwide enforcement of the mandatory Third-Party Insurance Policy for vehicle owners, following a directive from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. The enforcement, which began on February 1, 2025, is being strictly implemented across several states, including Lagos, Kogi, Akwa Ibom, and Kaduna.
In a series of statements issued by state police commissioners, authorities emphasized the importance of compliance with the insurance policy, warning that violators would face fines, penalties, or legal consequences.
Lagos Police Warns Motorists Against Non-Compliance
In Lagos, Commissioner of Police Olanrewaju Ishola stressed that all vehicle owners must possess at least a valid Third-Party Insurance Policy. He stated that officers had been instructed to strictly enforce the directive while maintaining professionalism.
“Vehicle owners in the state are required to have, at a minimum, valid Third-Party Insurance. Those without any form of insurance are advised to obtain one immediately,” Ishola said in a statement through the police command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin.
He warned that failure to comply would result in enforcement actions, including fines or impounding of vehicles.
“This initiative aims to ensure vehicle owners adhere to stipulated insurance requirements, safeguarding themselves and other road users,” he added.
While urging the public to cooperate, the commissioner also warned officers to conduct the exercise professionally.
“Any form of incivility towards members of the public will not be tolerated,” he cautioned.
Kogi Police Enforce Full Compliance
In Kogi State, Commissioner of Police Miller Dantawaye issued a firm directive for strict enforcement. He emphasized that the initiative is meant to enhance road safety and protect all road users.
“These regulations are designed to protect both motorists and other road users,” Dantawaye said in a statement through the command’s spokesperson, Williams Ovye-Aya.
He further warned that defaulters would face legal consequences, urging vehicle owners to obtain valid Third-Party Insurance to avoid problems during enforcement.
To ensure proper implementation, Dantawaye directed all Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers to carry out the enforcement exercise with professionalism.
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Akwa Ibom Police Impound Vehicles of Defaulters
In Akwa Ibom, Commissioner of Police Baba Azare personally led a monitoring team through Uyo and Ikot Ekpene to oversee the enforcement process.
Azare cited Section 68 of the Insurance Act and Section 312 of the 1945 Motor Vehicle Third-Party Insurance Act, noting that it is illegal to drive without valid insurance.
“This exercise is designed to protect road users, ensure accountability, and promote compliance with traffic laws,” he stated.
He confirmed that several vehicles had already been impounded, and their owners would not be able to retrieve them until they provided proof of valid insurance.
“Those who refuse to comply will be prosecuted,” he warned.
Despite some enforcement actions, Azare acknowledged a high level of compliance in the state, attributing it to sensitization efforts with stakeholders.
“The enforcement will be a continuous exercise until every vehicle owner complies,” he said.
Kaduna Joins Nationwide Crackdown
In Kaduna, the police command also launched its enforcement operation on February 1, 2025. The command’s spokesperson, Mansir Hassan, reiterated that the initiative was in line with the IGP’s directive.
“The Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, has given a directive for full enforcement of the mandatory Third-Party Insurance Policy,” Hassan said.
He explained that the policy was crucial for protecting road users from liabilities in case of accidents.
“Defaulters will face appropriate penalties as stipulated by the law,” he warned.
Nationwide Impact and Compliance
With enforcement ongoing across multiple states, vehicle owners have been urged to obtain valid Third-Party Insurance immediately. The police have assured the public that the exercise will be conducted professionally but firmly.
As enforcement continues, more states are expected to follow suit, ensuring that Nigerian roads are safer and that all motorists comply with the law.