The explosion at NIPCO’s compressed natural gas (CNG) distribution station in Benin City, Nigeria, over the weekend has raised concerns about the safety of vehicles running on the fuel. Michael Oluwagbemi, Programme Director and Managing Director, expressed his condolences to the victims of the incident and highlighted the illegal nature of the modification of the vehicle involved in the accident. A close inspection of the damaged tank revealed unauthorized modifications that made it unsuitable for CNG use.
This tragedy highlights the importance of establishing a monitoring system for natural gas vehicles in Nigeria. In collaboration with partners such as the Standards Organization of Nigeria, the Petroleum and Petroleum Downstream Regulatory Authority, the National Automotive Design and Development Council and the Federal Road Safety Corps, Pi-GNC is developing the system to enhance the safety of CNG vehicle users.
This incident should serve as a reminder to all stakeholders in the energy and transportation sector on the importance of complying with the standards and regulations in force. The safety of citizens should not be compromised due to illegal modifications made to vehicles.
In conclusion, in order to avoid such accidents in the future, it is imperative that the relevant authorities strengthen the monitoring of CNG installations and increase awareness among vehicle owners on the risks associated with any unauthorized modification. Public safety must be a top priority to ensure the safe and efficient operation of vehicles using alternative fuels such as compressed natural gas.