By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives has taken a crucial step in ensuring the safety of Nigerians by directing the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to implement measures that will prevent the importation of substandard and expired gas cylinders and kits.
This resolution was reached after a motion was moved by Aderemi Oseni, a lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, Oyo State. Oseni expressed concern over the recurring gas explosions that have led to loss of lives, injuries, and destruction of properties worth billions of naira.
According to Oseni, the influx of expired cylinders and substandard gas kits into the market is due to lapses by SON and NCS personnel at the country’s ports and borders. He emphasized the need for stricter regulations and supervision by relevant agencies to prevent these substandard products from entering the market.
Oseni also called on the National Orientation Agency to launch a public awareness campaign on the dangers of purchasing substandard gas products. This campaign will educate Nigerians on the importance of using only standard and unexpired gas cylinders and kits.
The House noted that experts have attributed the persistent gas explosions across the country to expired gas cylinders, substandard imported cylinders, tanks, and kits, as well as improperly fabricated local cylinders made with inferior materials. They are also concerned that CNG-powered vehicles have been involved in explosions due to substandard and locally fabricated cylinders.
To address this issue, the House directed SON and NCS to ensure that only standard, unexpired, and high-quality gas cylinders, tanks, trucks, and kits are permitted for importation. They also tasked the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority with ensuring that all gas plants and retail facilities are equipped with quality tanks and kits that meet safety standards.¹
The House mandated its Committees on Gas and Safety Standards and Regulations to conduct a thorough investigation into the root causes of frequent gas explosions in Nigeria and recommend long-term solutions to address the problem.
By taking these steps, the House of Representatives is demonstrating its commitment to protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians. It is essential that the relevant agencies implement these measures effectively to prevent further gas explosions and ensure public safety.
