Adoption of compressed natural gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel in Nigeria has been met with mounting scepticism after a series of explosions raised alarms about its safety and suitability.
The most recent incident in Benin City, Edo State, has sparked intense public scrutiny and renewed debate on the fuel’s future in the country.
Last month, a shocking explosion at a NIPCO gas station in the Aduwawa area rattled residents. A private vehicle refuelling with CNG erupted, leaving its trunk—housing the gas cylinder—twisted and shattered.
The blast resulted in severe injuries to three individuals: one motorist sustained eye damage, another victim’s abdomen was torn open, and a third lost a foot.
The victims were rushed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, highlighting the grave risks associated with unregulated CNG usage.
Investigations revealed that the explosion was caused by a cylinder fabricated by an unlicensed welder, violating safety standards.
Authorities have since detained the welder, and the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative issued a public reminder urging the use of certified conversion centres to prevent future tragedies.
This incident follows two earlier CNG-related explosions in Ogun and Rivers States that claimed five lives, deepening public scepticism.
Adding to concerns, Malaysia recently announced plans to phase out natural gas vehicles by 2025, citing the limited lifespan of gas cylinders and safety concerns.
Although Nigerian officials clarified that Malaysia’s move targets liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) rather than CNG, the announcement has amplified debates about the fuel’s risks and viability.
Despite these concerns, CNG conversion centres in Lagos and Ogun States report rising demand as Nigerians grapple with high petrol prices and economic challenges.
At Dana Motors in Isolo, Lagos, one of six authorised conversion centres, private vehicle owners are paying conversion fees ranging from ₦800,000 to over ₦1 million, while commercial vehicles are converted for free under a government programme.
CNG users like Olatoye Samson, a retired school principal, remain undeterred. After converting his vehicle with government support, Samson has saved significantly on fuel costs.
“In two weeks, I spent just ₦3,107 on CNG, compared to ₦60,000 I would have spent on petrol,” he shared. Despite potential risks, he is confident in the fuel’s benefits, adding, “Life itself is a risk. I am a son of God; His protection is over me.”
Commercial drivers also see advantages in CNG, with many spending as little as ₦5,000 to refill their vehicles. However, passengers have yet to see a significant reduction in fares, as drivers balance operational costs with economic uncertainties.
As CNG adoption grows, experts and advocates stress the need for stricter enforcement of safety standards and public awareness campaigns to mitigate risks.
For now, incidents like the Benin explosion underscore the urgent need for comprehensive oversight to ensure the promise of CNG as a cleaner, cheaper alternative does not come at the cost of public safety.
