Why compressed natural gas should not replace conventional fuel: A call for caution

By: Adedotun Michael Ogunyemi

Over the past few years, the Nigerian populace has been grappling with a steady and systematic increase in fuel prices. Amidst this, politicians, businessmen, and some individuals have been actively promoting Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative to petrol and diesel. While this may seem like an opportunity for savings, economic relief, and even business ventures, adopting CNG comes with significant risks that far outweigh the perceived benefits—especially in a country like Nigeria, where critical factors such as infrastructure, traffic, and safety are deeply intertwined.

Proponents of CNG have consistently marketed it as a more cost-effective fuel option, given the rising prices of petrol. Yes, on the surface, CNG appears cheaper. But are we considering the full picture?

Firstly, converting vehicles to run on CNG involves a significant upfront investment. Installation costs for CNG kits can be prohibitive for ordinary citizens and small business owners, many of whom are already struggling to meet basic needs. Additionally, CNG-powered vehicles require specialized maintenance, which could lead to further strain on Nigerians’ already thin wallets.

More crucially, the availability of CNG filling stations across the country is grossly inadequate. Fueling infrastructure is concentrated in certain areas, and it’s unlikely to expand rapidly given the current state of Nigeria’s economy. For those who travel long distances, especially truck drivers and logistics companies, this lack of infrastructure could lead to operational downtime and increased transport costs. These economic burdens, in the long run, could cancel out any initial savings.

Let’s even talk about safety and the risk to Lives. When it comes to fuel, safety should be the number one priority. And unfortunately, CNG carries serious safety risks that cannot be ignored.

CNG is stored under high pressure in cylinders. Any fault in the cylinder or the vehicle’s conversion can lead to devastating consequences, including explosions. In a country like Nigeria, where vehicle maintenance is often inconsistent, the risk of malfunction is heightened. Poorly trained mechanics, substandard conversion kits, and the general lack of awareness among drivers about CNG safety protocols further amplify this danger.

Moreover, traffic congestion in major cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Kano poses an additional threat. Traffic generates excessive heat, especially when vehicles are stationary for long periods. The extreme Nigerian heat combined with over-pressurised CNG tanks in vehicles increases the likelihood of accidents. A single explosion in a packed area like Oyingbo or Idumota could lead to catastrophic loss of life and property.

Well, Environmentalists may argue that CNG burns cleaner than petrol or diesel, emitting fewer greenhouse gases. While this is true in controlled environments, the Nigerian context adds layers of complexity that undermine this argument.

Many parts of Nigeria are already plagued by poor environmental management. Roadside mechanics lack proper disposal mechanisms for vehicle parts and waste, and fuel stations are not equipped to handle the environmental risks associated with large-scale CNG adoption. Improperly maintained CNG systems could lead to gas leaks, posing serious health risks to the public. Methane, the primary component of natural gas, is far more potent as a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide if released into the atmosphere unchecked. In essence, improper CNG handling could cause more harm to the environment than petrol.

Additionally, the nature of Nigeria’s bad roads cannot be overstated. Vehicles repeatedly bumping along potholed roads will face increased wear and tear, increasing the chance of equipment failure—especially for high-pressure CNG systems. The risks of a CNG tank malfunction due to the poor condition of our roads are far too great to ignore.

Nigerian roads, particularly in cities like Lagos, are characterized by endless traffic jams. In such congested conditions, vehicles generate immense amounts of heat. For CNG-powered vehicles, prolonged exposure to high temperatures could weaken the integrity of pressurized tanks, increasing the risk of gas leaks or, in worst cases, explosions.

Moreover, most Nigerian drivers and vehicle operators are not adequately trained in handling emergency situations that could arise with CNG systems. If a vehicle malfunctions on the road or a tank overheats, the lack of widespread knowledge on how to respond would likely lead to fatal consequences. The Nigerian government must recognize that our road networks, traffic conditions, and hot climate make CNG a much riskier proposition than conventional fuels.

𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒂𝒚 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒅?

It is important to specifically give a call to our Government and Lawmakers and in an attempt to do so, i write this note of warning.

While we must diversify Nigeria’s energy sources, the wholesale adoption of CNG as a replacement for petrol and diesel is fraught with peril. The government must carefully assess the full range of risks and dangers before encouraging the widespread use of CNG. It is crucial that policymakers and lawmakers examine the following areas:

1. Strengthening Vehicle Safety Regulations: If CNG is to be an option, stricter regulations must be enforced around vehicle conversions and cylinder maintenance. This includes regular inspections, mandatory safety certifications, and a crackdown on substandard conversion kits flooding the market.

2. Public Awareness and Training: The government must invest in extensive public education campaigns to ensure that drivers, mechanics, and filling stations are fully aware of the potential dangers of CNG. Mechanics in particular need to be trained in the specialized requirements of CNG vehicle maintenance to avoid fatal errors.

3. Infrastructure Development: Before promoting CNG, there must be substantial investments in CNG refueling stations, emergency response infrastructure, and proper road networks. Without these, CNG adoption could worsen transportation logistics, putting more pressure on businesses and the economy.

4. Careful Pilot Programs: The government should roll out CNG pilot programs in carefully controlled environments before encouraging its mass adoption. These pilots would help identify safety concerns, environmental impacts, and economic viability in the Nigerian context.

5. Prioritizing Alternatives: Instead of rushing towards CNG, the government should focus on more sustainable and safer energy alternatives such as electric vehicles, which—although facing their own challenges—offer a cleaner and safer long-term solution for Nigeria.But then, considering the classic Band A, B, C social segregation created by the government – pPHCN/NEPA, and the inadequate power supply one would think twice before pricing a Tesla.

While the appeal of CNG may be growing due to fuel price hikes, it is not a suitable alternative for Nigeria’s complex realities. The Nigerian government must prioritize public safety, environmental protection, and economic sustainability over quick fixes. Our roads, traffic conditions, heat, and maintenance culture make CNG a dangerous choice that could cost lives and disrupt the economy.

Nigerians deserve fuel solutions that offer safety, sustainability, and true long-term benefits. It’s time for the government and businesses to think carefully and explore better alternatives rather than adopting CNG prematurely.

Let’s avoid putting lives and livelihoods at unnecessary risk for short-term gains.

Adedotun Michael Ogunyemi is a Seasoned Physiotherapist & Urgent Care Practitioner, and Sociopolitical commentator.