As part of efforts to promote green energy and youth empowerment, the National Association of Polytechnic Students, NAPS in partnership with the MOFE Foundation has flagged off the inaugural comprehensive training programme on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion for 500 polytechnic students in the South-West region of Nigeria.
Blacktalker reports that the programme, flagged off at a formal ceremony attended by industry experts, government officials and student leaders, is part of a broader national drive to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and embrace more sustainable energy sources.
In a welcome address, the NAPS Southwest Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Obasanya Monday Johnson, expressed gratitude and enthusiasm about the project’s impact.
“This is not just an ordinary event, but a great achievement and milestone for all our students in the Southwest,” he said. “We are launching a unique initiative aimed at equipping our students with the knowledge and skills in green energy, contributing to the transformation agenda of the current government.”
Comrade Obasanya lauded the MOFE Foundation for its vital support in making the project a reality, emphasizing the Foundation’s role in ensuring the initiative goes beyond aspiration to become a practical success.
“We sincerely appreciate MOFE Foundation for partnering with us. They have helped us move this project from a dream to reality. God bless you,” he added.
Delivering the keynote address, the Convener of the MOFE Foundation, Engr. Mrs. Funmi Akingbagbohun described the initiative as a provocative step towards a more sustainable and economically vibrant future for Nigeria.
“The future of our transportation sector, industries, and environment depends on how well we harness our natural gas resources,” she said. “CNG conversion is not just an alternative but a catalyst for positive change.”
Akingbagbohun emphasized the environmental and economic benefits of adopting CNG, noting that it offers a cleaner, more efficient and cost-effective solution compared to petrol and diesel.
She lauded the Lagos State Government for its commitment to sustainability, stating that the state is already offering full support for infrastructure and policy implementation.
”The training will equip students with practical skills in CNG system conversion, installation, maintenance and safety protocols, she said. “You are not just learning a trade, you are becoming pioneers in shaping a sustainable tomorrow.”
“This is a business opportunity for students. The conversion kits are available, but we need skilled professionals who can implement this across Nigeria,” Akingbagbohun said.
In a special presentation, the programme Director for MOFE Foundation, Engr. Eyiwumi Kolawole called on Nigerian youths to embrace volunteerism, develop critical skills and actively participate in the country’s green energy transition.
Engr. Kolawole also urged students to see themselves as more than learners, but as leaders in a country urgently in need of innovation and civic responsibility.
Citing examples like the Foundation’s community clean-up initiative in Lagos, She explained how service provides not only social impact but also personal growth.
“It’s not just about cleaning,” she said. “It’s about creating opportunities for young people to connect, to serve and to grow.”
She also gave an overview of the MOFE foundation, saying the organization was founded in honor of the late Dr. Mojisola Olayinka Fatungase Edema, an academic and reformer whose legacy of service and empowerment continues through the foundation’s work.
“The MOFE Foundation is quietly but powerfully changing lives across Nigeria,” Kolawole said. “We’re here to bridge education with industry, promote sustainability, and ignite the power of youth through volunteerism.”
On his part, the guest speaker and the Technical Director of Verde Dynamo CNG, Babafemi Oluwaseun emphasized the critical need for trained CNG technicians in Nigeria, noting that there are over 11 million vehicles in the country and a significant gap in skilled personnel needed for their conversion.
“This initiative gives students the opportunity to learn valuable skills that are both highly sought after and economically rewarding,” he said.
Oluwaseun who is one of the technical partners volunteering for the CNG Conversion Initiative explained that the students will receive training in various aspects of CNG conversion, including safety procedures, mechanical systems, high-pressure line plumbing and even the business and marketing side of CNG services.
Addressing safety concerns, the CNG expert reassured Nigerians that natural gas is “safer, cleaner and cheaper than petrol,” emphasizing that approved conversion centers follow strict regulations and use certified kits.
“The key is to avoid quack service providers and only use government-approved centres,” he said. “There’s a tracking system in place to monitor installations and tank expiration dates. The industry is being standardized.”
Other stakeholders present at the events, including the Rector, Yaba College of Technology, Dr. (Engr.) I.A Abdul, the Dean of Engineering, YabaTech, Engr. Isaac Olugbemi Ajiboshin and the oba of Isheri-Olofin Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Ibrahim Olasunkanmi opined that the CNG conversion training aligns with Nigeria’s broader goals for energy security, climate action and job creation.
