From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), in collaboration with the Nigerian Defense Academy (NDA), has commenced a one-week intensive training on compressed natural gas (CNG) conversion skills.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on Tuesday, the Secretary of NBTE, Professor Idris Bugaje, said the training would equip Nigerians with the necessary skills to facilitate the transition to CNG as a safer and cheaper alternative to petrol.
According to him, the training, taking place at the NDA’s Center for Innovation and Creativity in Kaduna, is part of efforts to promote affordable and sustainable energy solutions.
He revealed that participants include young Nigerians from various sectors, institutions, private organizations, and local artisans, all united in their goal of achieving self-reliance and contributing positively to the nation’s economy.
“This initiative aligns with the federal government’s commitment to improving the livelihood of Nigerians.
“The training aims to address the critical skill gap needed for converting vehicles to use CNG safely and effectively,” Bugaje explained.
The Academy Provost, Professor Isah Garba, highlighted the role of NDA’s in fostering partnerships that enhance skills acquisition.
He reiterated the safety and cost-effectiveness of CNG, urging Nigerians to embrace it as a viable energy alternative.
He stressed that, contrary to some misconceptions, CNG is very safe adding that, its cooling temperature compared to petrol makes it a safer option, and its affordability presents a huge benefit to Nigerians.
One of the participants, Mallam Sani Abubakar, a car mechanic from Kaduna, expressed gratitude for the training.
He pledged to share his newly acquired skills with others and called on the government to invest more in manpower development.
