The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) has reassured motorists and the general public that Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) cylinders pose no risk when used correctly. This comes after a recent incident at a NIPCO CNG station in Benin City that left several people injured.
In a statement signed by PCNGI’s Programme Director, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, the organization expressed its sympathy for those affected by the accident. Oluwagbemi explained that a closer examination of the cylinder involved in the incident revealed that it had been improperly modified and was not fit for CNG use.
The accident occurred at the NIPCO CNG Station in Ikpoba Hill, Benin City, sparking concerns about the safety of CNG cylinders and stations across the country. Several people sustained injuries in the explosion, raising alarm among CNG users and the general public.
Engr. Oluwagbemi, in his statement, clarified that the cylinder involved in the incident was not designed or approved for CNG use. According to him, it had been welded and modified in ways that violated safety regulations. He emphasized that the incident was avoidable and not a reflection of the overall safety of CNG when the correct procedures and standards are followed.
“This particular cylinder had been altered and was not approved for CNG use. It had been welded and modified, which goes against safety protocols,” Oluwagbemi said. He further assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the full cause of the accident.
Following the explosion, a joint investigation has been launched by several authorities, including the Nigerian police, regulatory bodies, and NIPCO management. PCNGI is working closely with these agencies to ensure that all safety regulations are upheld and that any parties responsible for the incident are held accountable.
Oluwagbemi stated, “The police, regulatory authorities, and NIPCO management are conducting a detailed investigation into the incident. PCNGI is coordinating with them to ensure that this kind of unfortunate occurrence is not repeated.”
This incident has highlighted the importance of adhering to safety standards when dealing with CNG cylinders. Engr. Oluwagbemi took the opportunity to remind the public about the critical role of proper handling and maintenance in ensuring the safety of CNG vehicles and stations.
He stressed that CNG is a safe and reliable fuel source when handled correctly, but violations of safety protocols, such as using unapproved or modified cylinders, can lead to accidents.
“This incident underscores the importance of following proper safety protocols when handling CNG cylinders,” he said. “CNG is a safe, cheaper, and cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, but only when used in compliance with safety regulations.”
In response to the incident, PCNGI is accelerating the implementation of its Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System (NGVMS), a comprehensive safety initiative designed to monitor CNG vehicles and stations across the country. The monitoring system is a collaborative effort between PCNGI and several other partners, including the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
Engr. Oluwagbemi explained that the NGVMS will help to identify and eliminate unsafe practices in the CNG ecosystem. By working closely with these agencies, PCNGI aims to ensure that only accredited conversion centers and approved equipment are used, thereby minimizing the risks associated with CNG.
“The Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System is a key initiative that we are rolling out in partnership with SON, NMDPRA, NADDC, and FRSC,” Oluwagbemi said. “This system will help us identify and address bad actors in the CNG ecosystem, ensuring that Nigerians continue to benefit from a safer, cheaper, and more reliable fuel source.”
Engr. Oluwagbemi also used the opportunity to urge Nigerians to take responsibility for their safety when using CNG. He called on motorists to ensure that they only use accredited conversion centers and approved CNG cylinders to prevent accidents.
“Motorists and CNG users must ensure they only use accredited conversion centers,” Oluwagbemi advised. “This is critical for their safety and the safety of others. CNG is a very safe fuel source, but like any energy source, it requires careful handling.”
