The National Assembly has called for a thorough reassessment of Nigeria’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative, following reports of vehicle explosions attributed to uncertified conversions. Lawmakers are urging the government to prioritize rigorous testing to ensure the technology is safe and compatible with local conditions.
During the 2025 budget defense session of the Joint Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Petroleum (Upstream), and Gas, Senator Natasha Akpoti, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), expressed concerns about the insufficient research conducted before the rollout of the CNG program.
“Nigeria’s rough roads and hot climate are very different from the smooth and cooler environments where this technology was developed. Were these factors considered before implementing the CNG initiative?” Akpoti questioned.
The lawmakers’ concerns come amid incidents of explosions involving CNG-converted vehicles. Minister of State for Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo, attributed these incidents to uncertified conversion processes. He assured lawmakers that certified centers adhere to safety standards and noted that the technology had undergone evaluation by a Presidential Committee on CNG.
Ekpo emphasized that CNG remains a viable solution for Nigeria’s energy transition, blaming the explosions on unqualified roadside technicians rather than certified professionals who carry out proper conversions.
The budget defense session also brought attention to the Ministry of Petroleum’s 2025 capital allocation of N903 million. Lawmakers criticized the amount, describing it as inadequate for addressing Nigeria’s pressing energy challenges.
“For a ministry tasked with driving the country’s energy transition, this allocation raises serious concerns about its commitment to infrastructure development and innovation,” said Kafilat Ogbara, another lawmaker at the session.
The National Assembly stressed the importance of ensuring safety, proper implementation, and adequate funding to maximize the benefits of CNG while safeguarding lives and property.
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