Third-Party Insurance, Nigeria Police, And Enhancing Safety Standards -By Adewole Kehinde

On 10th January 2025, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, received the Commissioner for Insurance, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, and the team.

He was accompanied by Dr. Usman Jankara, Deputy Commissioner (Technical); Mr. Ekerete Ola Gam-Ikon, Deputy Commissioner (Finance and Administration); Dr. Talmiz Usman, Director (Legal, Enforcement, and Market Development); Mr. Ajibola Bankole, Director (Inspectorate); Mr. Taiwo Babatola Adeoye, Special Assistant to the Commissioner for Insurance; and other members of NAICOM.

Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin emphasised the need for the police’s assistance in ensuring public compliance with insurance laws. He also requested the Nigeria Police Force’s support in the nationwide enforcement of compulsory third-party insurance, which provides substantial benefits to all road users.

In response to the request of the Commissioner for Insurance, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), the IGP affirmed the importance of third-party insurance and announced February 1, 2025, as the commencement date for the enforcement of the relevant laws.

Egbetokun further stated that Section 68 of the Insurance Act and Section 312 of the 1945 Motor Vehicle (Third Party Insurance) Act mandate that all vehicle owners possess third-party insurance before operating their vehicles on public roads.

He urged Nigerians to comply with these laws, as violations are punishable by imprisonment, fines, or both.

Many commentators have praised the initiative, while some have condemned the enforcement by the Nigeria Police.

In the event of an accident, theft, or damage to your vehicle, auto insurance can shield you from monetary loss. For you and other accident victims, it can also assist with paying for medical bills and legal obligations.

In Nigeria, third-party insurance is not only required by law, but it is also a crucial safety measure for drivers and accident victims. It provides financial protection for third parties that sustain injuries, lose their lives, or have property damaged in traffic accidents and is governed by the Motor Vehicles (Third Party Insurance) Act and other pertinent laws.

Third-party insurance is the bare minimum of automobile safety protection that Nigerian drivers are required to have by law; it relieves financial burdens by enabling victims to obtain compensation without needless legal disputes.

The Motor Vehicles (Third Party Insurance) Act [1] and Section 68 of the Nigerian Insurance Act (2003) [2] mandate that all vehicles operating on public roads must have valid Third Party Insurance.

Fines are imposed on non-compliant individuals, who also risk financial penalties, vehicle impoundment, and criminal prosecution by the Nigerian police.

Car insurance is aimed at protecting both life and property. Most car insurance policies provide coverage for medical expenses resulting from accidents, as well as coverage for damage to the vehicle and other people’s property.

This helps to ensure that you are protected financially in case of any unfortunate events while driving.

The car insurance aim of protecting both life and property is supported under the Nigeria Police Act 2020. Under Section 2(c), it is the duty of the Nigeria police to protect the lives and property of all persons in Nigeria. (d) Enforce all laws and regulations without any prejudice to the enabling.

The Act’s goal is to create a more efficient and effective police force that protects the rights and liberties of all Nigerians.

An important step in guaranteeing accountability and road safety is the Nigerian Police’s renewed enforcement of Third Party Insurance laws, which offer accident victims financial protection and fairness in addition to compliance.

Adewole Kehinde is the publisher of Swift Reporters. 08166240846. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole