- The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has trained and graduated 500 youths in compressed natural gas conversion across the region.
- The programme aims to boost employment, support clean energy adoption, and position the Niger Delta as a hub for CNG technology.
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has graduated 500 youths from a six-week training programme on compressed natural gas (CNG) and autogas conversion. Participants came from the nine states of the Niger Delta region.
The graduation ceremony took place at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. During the programme, trainees acquired practical skills in CNG vehicle conversion and maintenance.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said the initiative promotes cleaner and more affordable energy solutions. According to him, CNG remains a safer and cost-effective alternative to conventional fuel.
He said, “We want to make the Niger Delta the hub of engine conversion, which can also be outsourced to other parts of Nigeria. We are taking that bold initiative that will engage most of our youth.
“We understand the challenges facing our youth, such as unemployment, limited access to skills training and economic uncertainty.
“The NDDC remains committed to turning those challenges into opportunities.”
Furthermore, Ogbuku explained that the programme would create jobs and support local technology transfer. In addition, it will encourage auto manufacturing, retrofitting, and conversion infrastructure.
He said, “The more we train our youths in energy conversion facilities, the more youths we train to make them gainfully employed and financially independent. We want to make the Niger Delta the hub of CNG technicians in the country.”
Earlier, the NDDC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative. This agreement supports the rollout of the CNG policy in the region.
Meanwhile, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, commended the NDDC for supporting the initiative. Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Enobong Uwah, he noted that the programme will help transform the region’s energy landscape.
He added that the Niger Delta has long been central to Nigeria’s energy sector. However, he emphasised that the global shift toward clean energy presents new opportunities.
In his remarks, the NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Dr Victor Antai, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to sustainable development. He noted that the training aligns with its mandate to promote economic growth and stability.
According to Antai, the programme ran in two batches of three weeks each. Participants received training in CNG conversion, system maintenance, and safety standards.
He added that the initiative will improve the transportation sector. At the same time, it will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and reduce harmful emissions.
Similarly, the NDDC Executive Director, Corporate Services, Ifedayo Abegunde, said the programme reflects the Federal Government’s vision. Specifically, it aligns with efforts to leverage Nigeria’s gas resources.
Also, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Akintunde Sawyerr, commended the initiative. He noted that it supports the Federal Government’s clean energy goals.
In the same vein, the Technical Assistant to the Presidential CNG Initiative, Omoh Imuokhuede, described the programme as part of a flagship initiative launched in 2023. He added that it aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The training consultant, Tunde Rena, highlighted the economic benefits of CNG adoption. He explained that it will attract investment, expand local gas markets, and increase government revenue.
Moreover, he pointed to rising demand for skilled professionals in vehicle conversion and maintenance. Therefore, he said the training programme is critical to meeting this need.
Finally, the NDDC Director of Commercial and Industrial Development, Mrs Lyna Okara, affirmed the programme’s importance. She stated that it aligns with the Commission’s mandate to promote skills development and human capacity in the Niger Delta.