Stakeholders Seek Improved Gas Safety Measures as Utilisation Rises

Stakeholders in the gas sector have called for stronger safety measures and wider public awareness as Nigeria continues to increase the use of gas for cooking, transport, power generation and industrial activities.

The concern was raised in Abuja ahead of the 2026 Nigeria Gas Safety Conference, where the Managing Partner of Fleissen and organiser of the conference, Dr Sunday Kanshio, said gas adoption in the country has grown significantly as government and private sector players push deeper into CNG, LNG, LPG and other gas-based energy solutions.

He said the growth in gas use must be matched with improved safety standards, stricter oversight and continuous education to reduce accidents and protect lives.

Kanshio disclosed that gas-related incidents recorded in several states over the past 12 months claimed 48 lives and left more than 80 people injured.

He said the figures showed the need for urgent and sustained safety intervention across the sector.

According to him, gas safety issues often receive less public attention than other emergencies, even though the risks remain serious. He said gas itself is not dangerous, but most accidents result from human error, equipment failure, poor handling and weak containment systems.

He noted that the expansion of gas-powered vehicles, LNG transport trucks, pipelines and LPG distribution networks across the country has increased the need for tighter regulatory monitoring and stronger safety education.

Kanshio also explained that LNG transport requires strict compliance with safety procedures because the product is moved at very low temperatures. He said this makes proper handling and operational discipline essential.

He added that safety awareness remains a routine part of operations in the oil and gas industry and should be taken seriously as Nigeria expands its gas infrastructure in support of energy transition and economic growth.

The conference, themed “Strengthening Safety Systems Amid Expanding Gas Production and Utilization,” is expected to bring together more than 200 delegates, over 40 speakers, four keynote presenters and five panel sessions.

Kanshio said the event would provide a platform for regulators, industry leaders, safety professionals and other stakeholders to discuss better regulations, improved standards and stronger collaboration.

He warned that repeated gas-related incidents could reduce public confidence, discourage investment and slow down the country’s shift to cleaner energy sources. He therefore urged government agencies, private operators, civil society and the media to support public education campaigns and promote a stronger safety culture nationwide