AWKA- The Anambra Command of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it will collaborate with key stakeholders to curb illegal activities and promote operational safety in the oil and gas sector
It said the partnership would involve the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers – Liquefied Petroleum Gas Retailers Association (NUPENG-LPGAR) and petroleum retailers.
Mr Edwin Okadigbo, the Head, Media and Tactical Operations, NSCDC Anambra Command, in a statement on Tuesday quoted Mr Maku Olatunde, NSCDC Commandant in Anambra as saying this in Awka.
He spoke during a courtesy visit by the Executive of NUPENG-LPGAR, Anambra Chapter, led by Mr Tochukwu Ngini, its chairman.
Okadigbo said the collaboration was to promote safety and prevent unethical practices in gas storage, sales, and distribution.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenge posed by unregistered gas retailers in the state.
Olatunde urged LPG retailers to prioritise safety measures and avoid practices that risk lives and property.
He said agencies such as NSCDC would not shy away from their responsibility of ensuring sanity in the oil and gas sector.
Ngini expressed concern over the circulation of substandard cylinders and the hazardous presence of high-propane LPG, which he said posed risks to both operators and consumers.
Ngini pledged the union’s cooperation to promote safety and security in the sector.
He also frowned at some sharp practices of unregistered gas retailers operating outside the NUPENG regulatory framework which posed risks to members of the public.
“We are here to solicit and perfect arrangements with the NSCDC in conducting joint enforcement operations against unregistered gas retailers.
“Also we want to see and ensure maximum compliance with best practices, and protect the public,” he said. (NAN)
