By Patience Chat Moses
Nigerians are grappling with the sharp increase in petroleum prices, which have reached new highs in recent days. Following the surge in petrol costs, the Federal Government intensified its campaign for the adoption of CNG; however, many Nigerians have expressed concerns about its safety following a recent explosion incident in Benin City.
The CNG-powered vehicle explosion occurred in a NIPCO CNG Station at Ikpoba Hill in Benin City on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, and left three people severely injured, including a motorist who suffered eye injuries. Valuechain gathered that an attendant at the station, who requested anonymity, revealed that two others—a woman whose stomach was ripped open and another person whose foot was severed due to the blast were receiving treatment at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Ugbowo.
According to the source, the explosion was traced to a cylinder that a welder had fabricated without proper approval from the necessary regulatory authorities. The welder has reportedly turned himself in, to the police.
Speaking regarding the explosion, the Presidential CNG Initiative said that it noted the unfortunate incident involving an illegally modified vehicle. The PCNGI also noted that the safe handling of all hydrocarbons is critical to their safe use.
According to the PCNGI, a close examination of the cylinder in question shows it was welded and modified and not approved for use for CNG. “The police, regulatory authorities and management of NIPCO are undertaking a painstaking investigation of the incident and we are coordinating with them.
“This incident reiterates the impetus of the PCNGI and our partners at the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)on the soon-to-be-launched Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System to tackle any bad actors in the ecosystem that seeks to make this safer, cheaper, and cleaner and more reliable source of fueling risky for all.
“We also call on all stakeholders to cooperate with the new system of regulation and ensure full compliance. Only accredited conversion centres must be patronised and safe handling of CNG just like petrol ensures safety of all,” the statement said.
The recent explosion has cast a spotlight on the critical safety concerns accompanying Nigeria’s ongoing transition to alternative fuel sources.
Nigeria’s Transition to CNG
Since the removal of fuel subsidies, Nigeria has been actively promoting the use of CNG as a cleaner, more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petrol and diesel. The federal government’s push for CNG adoption aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. In a country grappling with rising fuel prices and environmental degradation, CNG presents a cost-effective and sustainable option.
Earlier, the federal government launched an application portal for Nigerians to convert their vehicles from petrol to CNG. The National Orientation Agency, in a statement titled “Payment Plan to Make it Easier to Switch to CNG,” announced that Nigerians could apply via the portal to convert their vehicles to CNG and spread payments through monthly instalments. The statement noted that there are flexible payment options and assured applicants of support throughout the process with chances of quick approval.
However, the safety of this transition remains a significant concern. CNG, though less hazardous than petrol or diesel, is still a highly flammable gas that requires strict handling and safety procedures. As the number of CNG stations increases across Nigeria, so does the potential risk of accidents if proper safety measures are not implemented and maintained.
Safety Concerns and Regulatory Gaps
The explosion in Benin reveals a troubling gap in the enforcement of safety standards. While the Nigerian government has introduced safety regulations for CNG operations, the oversight and monitoring of compliance remain inadequate. Many stations are under-equipped to handle emergencies, and workers often lack proper training in gas handling and leak prevention. Moreover, some of the equipment used at CNG stations may be outdated or substandard, increasing the risk of malfunctions that can lead to explosions. Regular inspections of CNG stations are essential, but in many cases, such checks are infrequent or non-existent, allowing safety lapses to go unnoticed until a disaster occurs.
Addressing the Safety Challenges
To prevent future incidents like the one in Benin, several steps need to be taken.
Stricter Enforcement of Safety Regulations: The Nigerian government must enforce existing safety guidelines more rigorously, ensuring that all CNG stations adhere to strict operational standards. Regular audits and inspections by regulatory bodies such as the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) are crucial.
Training and Certification for Workers: Station workers should undergo comprehensive training in CNG handling and safety protocols. Certification programs could help ensure that only qualified personnel manage CNG operations.
Upgrading Infrastructure: CNG stations should invest in modern, high-quality equipment that meets international safety standards. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of ageing infrastructure are critical to preventing gas leaks and other hazards.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Public education campaigns on the safe use of CNG is vital. Motorists and station customers need to understand the risks involved and how to act responsibly in case of emergencies.
The recent CNG gas explosion in Benin serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in Nigeria’s energy transition. While CNG offers many benefits as a cleaner, cheaper fuel alternative, the safety of its production, storage, and distribution must be prioritized. Without adequate safety measures and regulatory enforcement, the push for cleaner energy could lead to more disasters. The time to act is now before further lives are endangered. As Nigeria continues to champion the adoption of CNG, a greater focus on safety will ensure a smoother and safer transition for all.