Regional and State Analysis of Petroleum Tanker Fire and Explosion Accidents in Nigeria

Abstract

In Nigeria, accidents related to petroleum tanker fire and explosion accidents have led to deaths and injuries of many people, destruction of properties and degradation of environment. This paper conducts regional and state analysis of petroleum tanker fire and explosion accidents in Nigeria from 2019 to 2024 in order to provide critical insight into the menace. Secondary sources of data were used and a mixed method research approach relating both qualitative and quantitative data collection was adopted. A total of 171 accident cases corresponding to 1822 deaths were obtained and the data were statistically analysed both in descriptive and inferential form. From regional perspective, South West obtained the maximum number of accidents as 75 whereas South-South recorded most number of deaths as 562. Equally, a one-way ANOVA test revealed that there is a statistically significant difference in the number of deaths reported across the different regions. On state-wise analysis, Lagos had a peak number of 40 accidents whilst Rivers State had 220 deaths as the highest. The present study thus having identified high-risk regions and states, it will guide stakeholders in prioritizing appropriate safety measures to address the challenge of petroleum tanker fire and explosion accidents in Nigeria.