Safety concerns raised over Nigeria’s shift to CNG and electric vehicles
Key stakeholders in Nigeria’s automotive sector are voicing concerns about safety risks as the country transitions to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs). Dr Ifeanyi Okeke of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria highlighted the dangers posed by uncertified products and poor installation practices. The Federal Road Safety Corps, led by Shehu Mohammed, is working on new regulations to ensure safe adoption of these technologies. Industry leaders stress that strict standards and public confidence are essential for a successful transition.
TLDR
- Stakeholders warn that weak regulation, inadequate testing, and low public awareness could undermine Nigeria’s clean mobility plans.
- Dr Ifeanyi Okeke emphasized that uncertified CNG and EV components and poor installations are major hazards.
- An explosion involving a CNG cylinder was traced to the use of an uncertified product and failure to comply with the Nigerian Gas Vehicle Installation Standard, NNG 1214:2024.
- The Federal Road Safety Corps is developing operational procedures and collaborating with other agencies to ensure safety.
- Industry leaders urge that only certified products and qualified installers should be used to build public trust in CNG and EV adoption.
