A devastating collision between a fuel tanker and another truck in Nigeria's north-central Niger state has resulted in an explosion, killing at least 48 people, according to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA).

The accident occurred in the Agaie area on Sunday, where the fuel tanker, which was also transporting cattle, burst into flames.

Abdullahi Baba-Arab, the director-general of NSEMA, initially reported 30 bodies found at the scene. However, in a later statement, he confirmed an additional 18 victims who were burned to death, bringing the death toll to 48. At least 50 cattle were also killed in the fire. Search-and-rescue operations are still ongoing at the site, and details on the number of injured remain unclear.

In response, Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago urged local residents to stay calm and advised road users to follow traffic regulations to prevent further accidents.

Fatal truck collisions, such as this, are common in Nigeria due to poor road conditions, reckless driving, and poorly maintained vehicles, with the country lacking an efficient railway system to transport goods. (ILKHA)