Tragic Fuel Tanker Explosion Claims 39 Lives in Nigeria

Sat Oct 25 2025 02:38:38 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A devastating fuel tanker explosion in Niger State, Nigeria, has resulted in the deaths of at least 39 individuals, with many more injured as villagers attempted to collect spilled fuel. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in a country plagued by such tragedies.

An oil tanker explosion in Niger State, Nigeria, has killed at least 39 people and injured around 60. The truck overturned, leading to a fuel spill that attracted villagers who rushed to collect the fuel before the tanker exploded. Despite numerous warnings about the dangers, similar tragic incidents continue to occur due to bad road conditions and public risk behaviors. Local officials have expressed sorrow over the recurring nature of these disasters.

At least 39 people have been killed in an oil tanker explosion in Nigeria's central Niger state after the vehicle skidded off the road and crashed, spilling fuel, an aid worker has told the BBC.

Another 60 people with varying degrees of injuries are currently receiving treatment at a hospital, said Abdullahi Baba Ara, head of the Niger state emergency service.

Villagers rushed to collect fuel from the overturned tanker which suddenly exploded, setting off a massive fire that engulfed them.

Tanker explosions are a recurring tragedy in Nigeria, despite repeated warnings about the dangers of collecting spilled fuel.

The intense blaze burned many victims beyond recognition, and the injured were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The accident occurred near the Essan and Badeggi communities along the Bida-Agaie road in the Katcha Local Government Area of Niger state.

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago sent his condolences to the people, describing the incident as worrisome, unfortunate and pathetic and lamenting the risks taken by locals in approaching fallen tankers. He noted that the tanker, carrying petroleum products from Lagos, crashed due to the poor condition of the road.

In October last year, a fuel tanker explosion killed 153 people in Jigawa state, and earlier this year another accident in Niger state resulted in 86 deaths. These incidents underscore the dire need for improved road safety and public education on the dangers associated with fuel spills.