The Lagos State Government has launched a one-month intensive training programme on Compressed Natural Gas conversion for 500 polytechnic students from across the South-West region.
Announced in a statement issued on Thursday by the Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Transportation, Bolanle Ogunlola, the initiative is taking place in Lagos and aims to build local expertise in CNG handling and application.
The training, themed “The Future of CNG in Nigeria: Empowering a Sustainable Tomorrow,” is a collaborative effort between the Mojisola Olayinka Fatungase Edema Foundation and the South-West Zone of the National Association of Polytechnic Students.
It is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s national drive to embrace CNG as a cleaner, more sustainable fuel alternative.
The programme was officially flagged off at Yaba College of Technology, drawing participation from government representatives, industry leaders, and other key stakeholders.
Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, who spoke at the opening ceremony, emphasized the environmental benefits of adopting CNG, describing it as a cleaner substitute for petrol and diesel that supports Nigeria’s climate goals.
“This programme is a strategic initiative that not only promotes sustainable energy practices but also equips the next generation of engineers with critical hands-on experience,” Osiyemi said.
He commended the organisers for their foresight in initiating the training and urged the participating students to make the most of the opportunity.
According to him, top professionals in the field will be guiding the sessions, which will end with the awarding of certifications.
In her keynote address, the immediate past National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Funmilade Akingbagbohun, highlighted the dual purpose of the programme, as both a youth empowerment platform and a step toward environmental sustainability.
She pointed out the economic advantages of CNG, noting that it offers a cheaper alternative to petrol and reduces dependence on imported fuels.
She stated, “By equipping 500 polytechnic students with specialized skills in CNG technology, we are not just training technicians, we are nurturing pioneers of a sustainable energy future.”