Compulsory Third-Party Insurance: IGP Sets February 1, 2025, for Nationwide Enforcement in Collaboration with NAICOM

NAICOM-POLIC Collaboration: A Bold Step Towards Road Safety and Insurance Compliance

On January 10, 2025, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, welcomed the Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, alongside senior executives from the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), to the Force Headquarters in Abuja. The meeting marked a significant milestone in fostering compliance with insurance laws across Nigeria.

In a historic announcement, the IGP declared February 1, 2025, as the commencement date for the enforcement of third-party insurance policies for vehicle owners nationwide. This announcement underscores the collaborative effort between the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and NAICOM to ensure road safety and uphold the law.

During the meeting, Mr. Omosehin commended the IGP for his leadership and the groundbreaking establishment of the Police Insurance Bank Limited. He highlighted the critical role third-party insurance plays in safeguarding all road users and emphasized the importance of the police’s support in enforcing these laws.

The IGP, in his response, reiterated the legal imperatives of third-party insurance, referencing Section 68 of the Insurance Act and Section 312 of the 1945 Motor Vehicle (Third Party Insurance) Act. “These laws are not just legal obligations but mechanisms for protecting lives and property,” he stated. The IGP called on Nigerians to comply, warning that violations could lead to imprisonment, fines, or both.

Reflecting on the broader implications of this partnership, the IGP noted that the initiative goes beyond enforcement—it signifies a commitment to fostering a culture of responsibility and safety on Nigerian roads. He assured that the NPF will collaborate with NAICOM and other stakeholders to raise public awareness and ensure seamless implementation of the policy.

This announcement is a flashback to similar milestones in the past where collaborations between law enforcement and regulatory agencies led to transformative outcomes. From seatbelt enforcement campaigns in the early 2000s to the crackdown on unregistered vehicles, such initiatives have demonstrated the power of joint action in driving societal change.

As February 1, 2025, approaches, the NPF urges Nigerians to view the compulsory third-party insurance policy as a protective measure rather than a mere legal obligation. With this move, the police and NAICOM aim to not only enforce compliance but also instill a sense of responsibility and accountability among road users.

This initiative is a timely reminder that laws exist not just to regulate but to protect, ensuring the well-being of every citizen on Nigeria’s roads. As the IGP aptly put it, “Compliance with these laws is not just a duty—it’s a commitment to safeguarding lives.”