Kaduna Explosion: Pi-CNG & EV Reassures on Gas Safety, Urges Calm, Says Probe Underway

The Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (Pi-CNG & EV) has reassured the public on the safety of natural gas following a vehicle explosion at a Kaduna motor park early Sunday, while urging calm as investigations proceed.
Pi-CNG & EV highlighted years of incident-free CNG use in Nigeria, stressing its reliability, cost-effectiveness, and air quality benefits.
The incident, reported in the early hours at an unspecified motor park, prompted a response from Pi-CNG & EV expressing deep concern and solidarity with those affected.
No cause has been confirmed yet, as the agency said it is working alongside state and federal authorities to establish facts.

“At this time, there is no confirmed information on the specific cause of the incident, as investigations are ongoing. The Initiative is working closely with relevant state and federal authorities to establish the facts.
“We wish to reassure the public that natural gas, when properly handled and deployed, has a strong safety record both globally and within Nigeria, with years of use across parts of the country without incidents of this nature.
“CNG remains a safe, reliable, and cost-effective fuel option, with the added benefit of supporting cleaner energy and improved air quality.
“We urge the public to remain calm and avoid speculation or sensational reporting while investigations are ongoing,” the agency’s head of Brand & Communications, Onyekachi Eke stated on Sunday.
The Pi-CNG & EV said ot remained fully committed to safety and will continue to work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the highest standards across the sector.

It further cautioned against speculation or sensationalism during the probe and recommitted to top safety standards, while promising updates as details emerge.

This event tests public confidence in the initiative, which has rolled out over 100 conversion facilities nationwide amid efforts to curb emissions and energy import dependence.
Launched in July 2023 by President Bola Tinubu, Pi-CNG & EV aims to convert one million vehicles to CNG within three years, leveraging Nigeria’s abundant gas reserves to cut transport costs by up to 70 per cent post-fuel subsidy removal. The programme includes conversion centers, bus fleets, and incentives, positioning CNG as a cleaner, safer option with a strong global and local safety track record when properly managed.