The Ministry of Petroleum Resources has inaugurated a technical working group to enhance gas reticulation practices in Nigeria’s building industry.

On Wednesday, the ministry’s permanent secretary, Nicholas Ella, inaugurated the technical working group between the National Gas Expansion Programme (NGEP) and the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON).

Reticulation refers to creating a network of pipes or tubes to distribute gas or other utilities to buildings or industrial sites. The permanent secretary restated the importance of creating energy-smart cities, saying modern urban development relies on efficient gas and utility distribution systems.

“Most modern cities in developed countries have evolved to energy smart cities where energy, specifically gas and other utilities, are piped to districts and estates.

“However, one of the key tools in creating an energy-smart city is the National Building Code, which, in essence, sets the guidelines on building pre-design, designs, construction and post-construction stages,” he said.

The permanent secretary reiterated the benefits of reticulated gas systems for households and businesses, adding that it ensured a metered supply akin to water and electricity.

According to him, it eliminates the need for cumbersome refills and enhances safety by burying pipes and incorporating advanced equipment.

“The TWG is tasked with designing a comprehensive policy to implement best practices for gas reticulation using LPG, PNG, and Bio-Gas across Nigeria’s building sector.

“Key responsibilities include reviewing the current National Building Code, examining global gas distribution systems, and proposing quality standards for materials used in gas installations,” he said.

The permanent secretary emphasised the need for rigorous safety protocols and guidelines to ensure the efficient and safe use of gas in construction.

He urged the group to prioritise environmental sustainability in its recommendations, adding that the group is expected to submit its report by November 15.

Samson Opaliwah, CORBON chairman, expressed the council’s commitment to collaborate with the group to ensure the safe uptake of gas for use in houses and housing estates in Nigeria.

“The gas infrastructure will be safe, sustainable and world-class. Our collective efforts will yield clear, standardised guidelines for safe and effective gas systems in buildings, matched with a skilled workforce to meet growing demands in Nigeria,” he said. 

(NAN)