NDDC Launches CNG Conversion Training for 400 Niger Delta Youths

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has officially flagged off a six-week training programme to equip 400 youths from the Niger Delta with skills in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle conversion and maintenance.

The event, held at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, saw the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, represented by the Executive Director of Projects, Dr. Victor Antai, describe the programme as a strategic investment in human capital development. He said it aims to position the region’s youths at the forefront of Nigeria’s ongoing energy transition.

“The CNG is a cleaner, safer, and more cost-effective alternative to conventional fuels,” Dr. Ogbuku said. “The growing adoption of CNG-powered vehicles across Nigeria has created a strong demand for skilled technicians. This programme will reduce youth unemployment, promote entrepreneurship, support environmental sustainability, and create new economic opportunities in the Niger Delta.”

The six-week training will run in two batches of three weeks each, providing participants with hands-on instruction in CNG vehicle conversion, system maintenance, and safety standards aligned with global best practices. Beneficiaries were urged to approach the programme with discipline and to avoid selling their starter packs upon completion.

Mrs. Lyna Okara, NDDC’s Director of Commercial and Industrial Development, confirmed that the 400 participants would benefit from the training in two batches, encouraging them to take full advantage of the opportunity.

Representatives of key partners also praised the initiative. Mr. Olayinka Rufai from the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PI-CNG) commended the NDDC for aligning with the Federal Government’s clean energy vision, describing the programme as “futuristic” and impactful for the region. Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, Akwa Ibom State representative on the NDDC Board, advised youths to fully leverage skills acquired from such initiatives to explore sustainable economic opportunities.

The Head Trainer from Viedenburg Energy Resources, Mr. Saidu Hamdullahi, also encouraged participants to maximize the training to prepare for emerging roles in Nigeria’s evolving energy sector.

The programme reflects the NDDC’s commitment to developing technical skills, fostering entrepreneurship, and promoting environmentally sustainable energy solutions in the Niger Delta.