PHOTOS BY OKOBIA RAYMOND
No fewer than 500 students from Polytechnics across South-West Nigeria have commenced a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion training programme in Lagos.
The initiative, organised by the Mojisola Olayinka Fatungase Edema (MOFE) Foundation in collaboration with the South-West Zone of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), is themed “The Future of CNG in Nigeria: Empowering a Sustainable Tomorrow.”
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, emphasised the environmental benefits of transitioning to cleaner alternative fuels like CNG.
He noted that CNG is eco-friendly, emits fewer pollutants than petrol or diesel, and plays a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, thus supporting Nigeria’s climate action goals.
Mr. Osiyemi described the CNG conversion programme as a strategic initiative aimed at promoting sustainable energy practices while equipping the next generation of engineers with hands-on knowledge.
He commended the organisers for their foresight and urged the students to fully embrace the opportunity, noting that participants would undergo a one-month practical training conducted by top industry experts, after which certificates of completion would be awarded.
In her keynote address, the immediate National Chairman, NIMechE, Engr. Mrs. Funmilade Akingbagbohun highlighted the dual impact of the programme in empowering youth and advancing environmental sustainability. She pointed out that leveraging Nigeria’s domestic natural gas reserves reduces dependence on imported petroleum products, conserves foreign exchange, and strengthens energy security.
She further explained that CNG is often more cost-effective than conventional fuels and that a thriving CNG conversion and maintenance sector can create thousands of skilled jobs, drive economic growth and empowering the nation’s youth.
“By equipping 500 talented polytechnic students with specialised knowledge and practical skills in CNG technology, we are laying a strong foundation for the future of this industry in Nigeria. You, the trainees, are not just learning a trade – you are becoming pioneers in a movement that will shape a sustainable tomorrow,” she said.
The event was attended by representatives from the Lagos State Ministries of Youth and Social Development, Energy and Mineral Resources, as well as leading industry professionals and stakeholders.