Driving in Nigeria is a very tiring and stressful endeavor. Apart from the traffic wahala and bad roads, there are so many uniform men on the roads, including VIO, the police, and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), inspecting cars and drivers. Many Nigerian drivers have faced fines, harassment, or unnecessary delays simply because they didn’t have the required items in their cars.
To have an easy life while driving on Nigerian roads, there are some essential things you need to have. These things will prevent the police and road safety from harassing you, but most importantly, they will have you covered in case of emergencies.
Essential items for your car in Nigeria
1. Valid Driver’s License
The first and most important requirement for driving in Nigeria is a valid driver’s license. Driving without this document places you at an advantage when confronted by a police or road safety official because it is the first thing they are likely to ask of you. When driving without a valid license, you are automatically in violation of the law. Another important thing is to make sure it is the right license for the type of vehicle you are driving, and it is up to date.
2. Vehicle Documents
Apart from the license, there are several other important documents that your car is expected to have to avoid any issues with the law. The documents include a vehicle registration, proof of ownership, and a roadworthiness certificate. Others are third-party Insurance, customs duty, and other documents that may be specific to your type of car.
3. C-Caution (Warning Triangle)
Every car in Nigeria is required to have at least two reflective warning triangles. While the police will not ask this of you, the road safety will. The triangles are essential in case your car breaks down or you’re involved in an accident. The first is to be placed at a safe distance in front of your car, while the second will be placed behind the car at a safe distance to warn oncoming vehicles.
4. Fire Extinguisher
Another essential thing you need to have as a car driver or owner in your car to avoid any form of harassment is a functional fire extinguisher. This is one of the things that Road safety officers often check for, and driving without one can lead to fines. Even more important than the fines, you need to have this in case of any fire incident.
More than owning a fire extinguisher, ensure that it is not expired.
5. Jack, wheel spanner, and Spare Tyre
With so much insecurity in Nigeria, a spare tyre, wheel spanner, and jack are things every driver must have, in case you have a flat tyre at an odd hour or in the wrong place. Beyond that, these are things that the police and FRSC may likely ask for when they stop you on the way. Always ensure your spare tyre is properly inflated and your jack is in good condition.
Also, having a small tool kit with screwdrivers, pliers, and spanners is recommended for minor roadside repairs.
See Also: 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Car on Hire Purchase
6. First Aid Kit
Most car owners and drivers in Nigeria do not take this seriously, but it is among the essential things you need to have in your car. According to FRSC regulations, every vehicle must have a first aid kit. You should have basic items like bandages, antiseptics, scissors, and pain relievers kitted in the box.
7. Reflective Jacket
For people who travel a lot at night, having a reflective jacket is important in case your car breaks down. It gives you added visibility for oncoming vehicles. Apart from your safety, it is one of the things that you may be asked when you are stopped in the evening or in the early hours of the morning.
Other Essential Items for Your Car in Nigeria
Apart from the above, other things will. One of the most important is the tyre. Rather than ask, FRSC will look to see if your tyres are still in good condition or if they have expired.
Your car seat belts also need to be in very good condition for your safety and to avoid any issues with the road safety. They may likely check to ensure that the driver’s, front passenger seat, and back seat belts are all in good condition.
Lastly, even if you have all the necessary documents and other essential items, driving with faulty headlights, brake lights, or indicators can still get you in trouble. Regularly check your lights and replace bad bulbs immediately.
