Towards empowering youths with cutting-edge skills, the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), in conjunction with the MOFE Foundation, yesterday, kicked off training of 500 students from Southwest polytechnics on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion.

Speaking during the ceremony at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Akoka, keynote speaker/immediate past National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE), Mrs. Olufunmilade Akingbagbohun, noted that the initiative, which marks a pivotal step towards a more sustainable and economically vibrant Nigeria, was crucial, as the future of the transportation sector, industries, and indeed, the environment, hinges on the nation’s ability to strategically harness natural gas resource.

According to her, CNG conversion has emerged not just as an alternative but also as a powerful catalyst for positive change.

She pointed out that equipping 500 talented polytechnic students with specialised knowledge and practical skills in CNG technology would be put in place.

Akingbagbohun, who spoke on: ‘The future of CNG in Nigeria: empowering a sustainable tomorrow’, explained that the trainees were not just learning a trade, but equally becoming pioneers in a movement that would shape a sustainable tomorrow.

To realise the full potential of CNG conversion, she emphasised that there must be investment in infrastructure and CNG stations that fuel infrastructure, build capacity, train technicians, engineers, and stakeholders, promote adoption by encouraging policy support, incentives, and public awareness.

Her words: “Over the coming weeks and months, you will delve into the intricacies of CNG systems, learn best practices in conversion and maintenance, and gain hands-on experience that will make you highly sought-after professionals. Embrace this opportunity with enthusiasm, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. The skills you acquire here will not only enhance your individual career prospects, but will also contribute directly to the growth and sustainability of our nation.”

Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, stressed that with several benefits the use of CNG offers, especially in mitigating climate change impacts, reducing cost and maintenance of vehicles, empowering the next generations on installation, maintenance and safety protocols is vital, particularly for youths.

He urged the beneficiaries to make the best use of the opportunity by devoting their time to the practical training sessions, which would culminate in the presentation of certificates.

The Programme Director, MOFE Foundation, Eyiwunmi Kolawole, charged the students to seize the opportunity to build capacity, connect and grow.
Also contributing, the Southwest Coordinator of NAPS, Obasanya Johnson, lauded the facilitators for considering polytechnic students from the region for the training, adding that the move would equip them with knowledge on green energy and contribute to the nation’s economic transformation.

Earlier, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, represented by Obadare Adenekan, described the training as timely and aligning with the objective of the state government in building an inclusive and sustainable society.

IN a similar vein, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) has introduced Project CNG-SPROUT to power university campuses, build a clean and green ecosystem for the future.

The project is being done in partnership with MDGIF and Femadec Energy Limited.Its objectives go beyond providing cheap transportation to our students. It will equip them with practical skills in CNG vehicle conversion and maintenance,” a statement read.

It added that the move would “open doors to future employment and entrepreneurship.” According to the PCNGi, the rollout begins with six universities, with 14 more to follow before the end of the year.