The House of Representatives has directed the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to enforce stringent measures to ensure that only high-quality and unexpired gas cylinders and kits are imported into Nigeria.
Concerns Over Gas Explosions
- The decision follows the adoption of a motion by Hon. Aderemi Oseni (APC, Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, Oyo State).
- Oseni raised concerns over the frequent gas explosions across Nigeria, resulting in numerous deaths, severe injuries, and property destruction worth billions of naira.
- He attributed these explosions to expired and substandard gas cylinders and kits, which enter the country due to poor regulation at ports and borders.
Key Issues Identified
- Experts have linked these explosions to:
- Expired gas cylinders
- Substandard imported cylinders, tanks, and kits
- Poorly fabricated local cylinders made with inferior materials
- The danger is not limited to cooking gas, as compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles have also been involved in fatal explosions due to the use of substandard cylinders.
Recent Explosions and Fatalities
- In 2024 alone, over 100 lives have been lost due to gas explosions.
- The most recent explosion in Port Harcourt on January 7, 2025, left 17 people with serious injuries.
House Directives to Address the Crisis
- SON and NCS must ensure only high-quality, certified, and non-expired gas cylinders, tanks, and kits are imported into Nigeria.
- The National Orientation Agency (NOA) should launch a nationwide awareness campaign to educate citizens on the dangers of using substandard gas products.
- The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) must ensure that gas plants and retailers use only standard tanks and kits.
- The House Committees on Gas and Safety Standards & Regulations are mandated to investigate the root causes of recurring gas explosions and propose lasting solutions.
Implications of the New Measures
- Stricter border controls to prevent substandard gas products from entering Nigeria.
- Increased inspections at gas plants and retail outlets to ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on proper gas usage and the dangers of expired cylinders.
- Enhanced oversight by regulatory agencies to prevent future gas-related disasters.
The House of Representatives’ intervention signals a strong commitment to public safety, urging urgent action to prevent further loss of lives and property.
