In response to the tragic gas explosion caused by a road accident involving a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) truck in Abeokuta last Saturday, the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, paid a visit to Ogun State earlier today to assess the situation and offer support to the affected families.
Hon. Ekpo was accompanied to the accident site by the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, where they surveyed the scene and met with local authorities to understand the impact of the explosion.
During the visit, the Honourable Minister conveyed the condolences of the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the Governor and the people of Ogun State, with a special emphasis on the families directly impacted by the explosion.
He expressed the Federal Government’s commitment to safety and energy transition policies, highlighting the role of gas as a cleaner and more affordable form of energy.
“The future of fuel in Nigeria lies in gas,” stated Hon. Ekpo, “and we are dedicated to ensuring that CNG can be delivered safely to end-users across the country.”
He emphasized that the Federal Government, in collaboration with relevant agencies including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), will take necessary measures to improve safety standards and prevent such accidents in the future.
In response to the visit, Ogun State Governor, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, welcomed the Honourable Minister and expressed gratitude to the President for his support and concern for Ogun State.
He assured the public of the general safety of CNG and pledged to thoroughly investigate the incident to prevent recurrence. “We will leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and well-being of the general public,” said Governor Abiodun.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any safety concerns to relevant agencies. The Federal Government’s Energy Transition policies aim to ensure a safe and sustainable future for Nigeria, with gas playing a pivotal role in that vision.
