Pi-CNG & EV Investigates Kaduna Explosion, Reaffirms Natural Gas Safety Standards
The Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (Pi-CNG & EV) has moved to reassure the Nigerian public regarding the safety of natural gas following a vehicle explosion at a motor park in Kaduna State on Sunday. In an official statement released by Onyekachi Eke, Head of Brand and Communications for Pi-CNG & EV, the management expressed deep concern over the incident and called for calm as investigations are currently underway.
Details of the Kaduna Incident and Ongoing Probe
The explosion, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday at an unspecified motor park in Kaduna, resulted in damage to two buses. Eke highlighted that the cause of the blast has not yet been confirmed, with Pi-CNG & EV collaborating closely with state and federal authorities to establish the facts. She emphasised the long history of incident-free Compressed Natural Gas use in Nigeria, noting its reliability, cost-effectiveness, and benefits for air quality as key advantages of the technology.
Delta State Advances CNG Adoption with New Stations
In a related development, the Delta State Government has taken a significant step toward reducing transportation costs and promoting cleaner energy by commissioning Compressed Natural Gas stations in Asaba and Warri. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori unveiled the NIPCO Gas CNG station in Asaba, describing the initiative as a strategic move aimed at easing the financial burden on residents while advancing the state's transition to alternative energy sources.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, the governor stated that the project, commissioned simultaneously in both cities, is expected to fuel up to 2,000 vehicles daily. He referred to the stations as foundational steps in Delta's adoption of CNG technology, calling them "daughter stations" and a "kindergarten station" that will dispense gas and serve as conversion centres for vehicles.
Governor Oborevwori Calls for Private Investment
Oborevwori noted that the state government is open to partnerships and concession arrangements to expand the network of CNG stations across Delta. He encouraged private investors to participate in the initiative, particularly in establishing CNG-powered transport systems. "We are also open to private investors who want to establish their own CNG buses. We are ready to concession that," he added, underscoring the priority of reducing transportation costs despite considerable investments in road infrastructure.
The governor emphasised that this move is a necessary step to push down costs, aligning with broader efforts to enhance economic accessibility and environmental sustainability in the region.
