The Petroleum Compressed Natural Gas Industry (PCNGI) has issued a statement, signed by the Programme Director, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, extending heartfelt sympathy to those injured in the recent incident at the NIPCO CNG Station in Ikpoba Hill, Benin City.
Oluwagbemi reported that an examination of the cylinder involved in the incident revealed it had been welded, modified, and was not approved for use with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the event, which is being conducted in collaboration with the police, regulatory authorities, and NIPCO management.
Highlighting the incident’s seriousness, Oluwagbemi stated that it emphasizes the urgent need for the upcoming Nigeria Gas Vehicle Monitoring System. This initiative, a joint effort between PCNGI and various partners—including the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)—aims to identify and address bad practices within the ecosystem. The goal is to ensure that CNG remains a safer, cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable fuel source for everyone.
Oluwagbemi urged the public to only use accredited conversion centers to ensure their safety, reinforcing the importance of adhering to safety standards in the gas industry.