Nigeria’s push for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is gaining momentum, but with it comes a rise in dodgy conversion centers. The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) is sounding the alarm, urging everyone to only use government-certified workshops. Why? Your safety depends on it, and we’ve got the lowdown.
Here’s a Quick Rundown:
- Official Warning: P-CNGi is telling Nigerians to avoid uncertified CNG conversion workshops.
- Safety First: Illegal conversions and dodgy cylinders are a major safety risk.
- Find the Right Spot: Check the P-CNGi website for a list of approved centers.
- CNG is Cheaper and Safer: CNG is promoted as a better and less risky alternative to petrol.
- Government Goal: Nigeria aims for 1 million CNG-converted vehicles by 2027.
Why the Fuss About Certified Centers?
So, what’s the big deal? Well, converting your petrol-guzzling ride to run on CNG is a great move for your pocket and the environment. However, it’s not as simple as slapping on a new fuel tank. Uncertified mechanics are using cheap, locally-made cylinders that can lead to disaster. It’s like playing Russian roulette with your car – not a good look, my people!
The Dangers of ‘Quack’ Conversions
These illegal operations are not only putting your life at risk but also sabotaging the government’s effort to make CNG a safe and reliable option. Imagine filling up with gas, and instead of a smooth ride, you get a literal explosion. That’s the reality with these unapproved cylinders, made by unqualified folks trying to make a quick buck.
One incident in Edo State in 2024, where some folks were injured using homemade cylinders, serves as a big warning sign. The authorities didn’t waste time arresting and charging these individuals for economic sabotage, because that’s how serious this issue is.
CNG vs. Petrol: A Safety Showdown
The P-CNGi boss, Mr. Michael Oluwagbemi, made it clear: CNG is safer than petrol and diesel. How so? Well, natural gas is lighter than air, so if there’s a leak, it disperses fast. Plus, it has a much higher self-ignition temperature. Think of it this way, petrol is a bomb waiting to go off, while CNG is more like a slow-burning candle, if it ever goes off at all.
Here’s a breakdown:
| Fuel | Explosiveness | Fatality Rate (in vehicle explosion) |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol | High | 9 out of 10 |
| Diesel | Moderately High | High, but less than petrol |
| CNG | Low | Extremely low, nearly zero with certified cylinders |
How to Find Certified Conversion Centers
Okay, enough with the scare tactics. How do you ensure you’re using a certified center? Simple. Visit the official P-CNGi website – www.pci.gov.ng. They have a list of all the approved centers in the country. There are about 30 centers in Abuja alone, and over 70 in Lagos, and more are opening up.
Nigeria’s Ambitious CNG Plan
The goal is big: President Bola Tinubu’s administration wants 1 million converted vehicles by 2027, a major jump from the current 30,000 to 50,000. This is part of a wider plan to use our vast natural gas reserves and make transportation cheaper and cleaner for everyone.
So, spread the word, my people! Stick to the official CNG conversion centers, keep your vehicles safe, and let’s make this transition smooth and incident-free.