By Adedapo Adesanya
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has adopted 80 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-related standards to ensure safety in the fuel’s operation in the country.
This was made known by the Director-General of SON, Mr Ifeanyi Okeke, during a meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, recently which came on the heels of a recent accident in Abeokuta involving a CNG truck.
The SON boss commiserated with the governor and people of the state on the unfortunate incident that recorded one fatality and many cars and properties destroyed.
The meeting, which took place at the governor’s office, was marked by discussions on aligning state-level regulations with federal standards, enhancing safety protocols, and streamlining processes for the adoption of CNG as an alternative fuel source.
Mr Okeke said the decision to elaborate and adopt 80 CNG-related standards would help ensure that operators adhere to the highest safety protocols, minimizing risks associated with handling and usage.
Highlighting the significance of the collaboration between SON and Ogun State, the Director-General reiterated SON’s commitment to upholding stringent quality standards in line with global best practices.
He emphasized the pivotal role of standardization in promoting consumer confidence, safeguarding public health, and fostering sustainable economic development.
On his part, Governor Abiodun expressed his administration’s unwavering support for initiatives aimed at diversifying the energy mix and reducing dependency on traditional fuels.
He underscored the importance of ensuring the safety and reliability of CNG infrastructure to mitigate potential risks and promote widespread adoption across the state.
The discussions also touched upon the broader national agenda, regarding President Bola Tinubu’s visionary “Renewed Hope” agenda, which prioritizes the implementation of strategic projects such as the CNG initiative.
