The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has graduated 500 young people from across the Niger Delta after completing a specialised training programme in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle conversion, in a move aimed at boosting employment and supporting Nigeria’s transition to cleaner energy.
The ceremony took place on Wednesday at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where participants who underwent six weeks of intensive practical training were formally certified.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission said the initiative aligns with the country’s increasing adoption of CNG as an alternative fuel source, noting that the shift is opening up new technical and economic opportunities.
“The transition to CNG-powered vehicles is creating a strong demand for technicians with the right skills to handle conversion, maintenance, and system management,” he said.
He added that beyond addressing immediate employment needs, the Commission is working toward establishing the Niger Delta as a centre of excellence for vehicle conversion services nationwide.
“We are determined to position the region as a leading hub for engine conversion services that can serve not just the Niger Delta but the entire country,” he stated.
The programme, delivered in two phases over six weeks, focused on hands-on instruction covering conversion techniques, safety protocols, and maintenance practices consistent with international standards.
The NDDC boss also highlighted the broader socio-economic impact of the initiative, particularly in tackling youth unemployment and equipping beneficiaries with marketable skills.
“This effort reflects our commitment to creating pathways for self-reliance by equipping young people with practical, income-generating skills,” he said.
The training initiative builds on an existing collaboration between the NDDC and the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI), following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to deepen the rollout of CNG infrastructure and expertise in the region.
Stakeholders say the partnership is expected to stimulate job creation, encourage local capacity development, and expand opportunities in areas such as vehicle retrofitting, auto manufacturing support services, and technical maintenance.
Industry observers note that as Nigeria intensifies efforts to reduce fuel costs and carbon emissions, programmes like this could play a critical role in strengthening the country’s transport sector while advancing environmental sustainability goals.
With the latest batch of trained technicians entering the workforce, expectations are high that the initiative will not only support livelihoods but also accelerate the growth of a cleaner and more efficient automotive ecosystem.
