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Lagos Unveils Ambitious Energy Roadmap, Eyes Universal Access, Local Manufacturing

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Lagos Unveils Ambitious Energy Roadmap, Eyes Universal Access, Local Manufacturing

The Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has unveiled bold future plans aimed at achieving universal energy access, improving electricity reliability and stimulating local manufacturing of power infrastructure components.

These strategic goals were disclosed during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing addressed by Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Biodun Ogunleye at the ongoing Ministerial Press Briefing to commemorate six years in office of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Ogunleye mentioned that key among the Ministry’s forward-looking initiatives is the full implementation of the Lagos Electricity Market structure under the Lagos State Electricity Law, 2024 which will involve licensing independent electricity distribution companies, supporting embedded generation, and operationalizing the Lagos Independent System Operator (LISO) to stabilize the power ecosystem.

“We are taking deliberate steps to transition Lagos into a 24-hour economy through reliable and sustainable energy solutions,” Ogunleye stated.

He mentioned that the Ministry is also working to complete and energize eight interconnected mini-grids in underserved communities, with plans to scale up such interventions across rural and riverine areas.

“The Lagos Integrated Resource Plan, currently under development, will guide long-term energy planning and infrastructure investment.”

Speaking further, Engr. Ogunleye disclosed that plans are also being concluded to partner with local and international investors for the local manufacturing of power assets such as transformers, meters, cables, and switchgears.

Lagos Unveils Ambitious Energy Roadmap, Eyes Universal Access, Local Manufacturing

This, according to Ogunleye, will not only strengthen the energy value chain but also create jobs and boost industrial capacity while also reducing import dependency on the part of the State Government.

“Lagos is further set to activate the Lagos State Electrification Agency (LSEA) and deepen its collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency under the DARES programme, ensuring no community is left behind in the energy transition.

” When all these plans materializes, Lagos would have successfully positioned itself as a model for sub-national energy transformation in Africa, leveraging policy, technology, and partnerships to power prosperity”, said the Commissioner

Lagos Leads Nigeria’s Power Sector Reform with New Electricity Law

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Lagos Leads Nigeria’s Power Sector Reform with New Electricity Law

Lagos State has taken a pioneering step in Nigeria’s electricity reform landscape with the passage and implementation of the Lagos State Electricity Law, 2024, empowering the State to regulate its own electricity market, spanning generation, transmission, distribution, and trading of electricity.

The landmark legislation, signed into law by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in December 2024, establishes critical institutions that will drive the State’s power ambitions.

These include the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LASERC), which will oversee licensing and market regulation; the Lagos State Electrification Agency (LSEA), tasked with expanding access to underserved communities; and the Lagos Independent System Operator (LISO), which will coordinate grid reliability and operations.

Addressing journalists at the 2025 Annual Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Biodun Ogunleye, said the law represents a turning point in Lagos’ power supply history and aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision of a reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity sector.

“This bold step not only decentralizes power in Nigeria but positions Lagos as a leader in sustainable energy policy and delivery. The establishment of our own regulatory and operational electricity market will ensure energy sufficiency, reduce losses, and ultimately improve the quality of life for millions of residents,” Ogunleye said.

Lagos Leads Nigeria’s Power Sector Reform with New Electricity Law

He noted that LASERC has already commenced engagements with key stakeholders to license new market participants, including independent power producers (IPPs) and distribution companies (DisCos), which will operate under Lagos’ own regulatory framework. This development will help increase competition, attract private investment, and accelerate electrification.

As part of the implementation of the new law, the Commissioner also revealed plans to establish the Lagos Electricity Market (LEM), a coordinated ecosystem that will support embedded generation, smart grid deployment, and consumer protection through data-driven oversight.

“The LEM will be powered by digital tools to monitor power generation and usage in real-time. We will ensure transparency, promote investor confidence, and protect end-users,” Ogunleye added.

He disclosed that the Ministry has commenced work on the Lagos Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to provide a long-term roadmap for energy access and infrastructure development across sectors. In addition, eight new interconnected mini-grids are currently being deployed across underserved communities, with several others in the pipeline under a phased rollout strategy.

Looking ahead, the Commissioner affirmed that the Ministry is exploring local manufacturing of electricity infrastructure such as transformers, meters, cables, and switchgears, through partnerships with private sector players, to drive job creation and reduce import dependence.

Ogunleye also reiterated the State’s readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government and other sub-nationals to ensure a just and coordinated energy transition that benefits all Nigerians.

With these bold initiatives, Lagos is well on its way to becoming the first sub-national in Nigeria, and one of the few in Africa, with a fully regulated and independent electricity market, delivering stable, scalable, and sustainable power for development.

Chiderije Mbah Wins One Day MD/CEO Of Wema Bank PLC, Set To Run Affairs For 24 Hours In Unforgettable Children’s Day Experience

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MORUF OSENI DONATES 1-DAY SALARY TO WINNER OF WEMA 1-DAY MD/CEO INITIATIVE FOR CHILDREN’S DAY

In a heartfelt celebration of 2025 Children’s Day, Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has unveiled 12-year-old Chiderije Mbah as its One-Day Managing Director/CEO for May 27, 2025, as part of a special initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of Nigerian leaders.

The memorable experience, which took place today, at the bank’s headquarters in Lagos, Marina, spotlighted Wema Bank’s ongoing commitment to investing in the future even as it marks 80 remarkable years of legacy and impact.

Chiderije Mbah became the winner of the One-Day Wema Bank MD/CEO initiative launched in May 2025, to mark this year’s Children’s Day celebration.

He was chosen after sharing a spirited video explaining his dream of leading a bank and his vision for making finance more fun and accessible for children. His entry, submitted through a social media challenge, stood out among dozens who applied to be in the position.

Chiderije Mbah Wins One Day MD/CEO Of Wema Bank PLC, Set To Run Affairs For 24 Hours In Unforgettable Children’s Day Experience

The One-Day Wema Bank MD/CEO was the high point of a broader Children’s Day initiative by Wema Bank, which invited children across the country to participate in an online challenge.

To qualify, children were asked to post a short video dressed in Wema colours and share the banking role they aspired to, while either holding or opening a Royal Kiddies Account (for ages 0–12) or an ALAT Xplore Wallet (for teenagers 13–17).

The campaign blended fun with purpose, introducing thousands of young Nigerians to early financial education and the power of dreaming big.

On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Chiderije stepped into the spotlight at Wema Bank’s Lagos Headquarters, receiving a purple-carpet welcome and taking his seat at the helm of the bank for a day packed with leadership, learning, and excitement.

Enjoying a full day of activities; from a guided tour of the head office to holding his own executive briefing session in the boardroom, he will also be addressing senior executives of the bank.

“This is the best day of my life,” said Chiderije Mbah. “Wema Bank made me feel important. I am learning so much about being a leader and how banking works. I’ll tell all my friends to open a Wema Bank Royal Kiddies Account so they can also start learning how to save and maybe one day, they can be MD too!”

Speaking on the initiative, Wema Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Moruf Oseni, said “Our 80th anniversary is a time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going, knowing fully well that the future belongs to the young stars like Chiderije.

Today’s activity is one of our ways of showing that we believe in the children, that we’re listening, and that we’re committed to helping them succeed financially, personally, and professionally all the way.”

This unforgettable experience reinforces Wema Bank’s vision of a future-ready Nigeria; one where financial inclusion starts early, and every child has access to tools, inspiration, and opportunities to thrive.

As Wema bank celebrates eight decades of resilience and innovation, its gaze remains firmly fixed on the horizon, championing the dreams of tomorrow’s leaders, one child at a time.

NOA Takes Anti-Cultism, Drug Abuse Campaign to School in Ikorodu, Lagos

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NOA Takes Anti-Cultism, Drug Abuse Campaign to School in Ikorodu, Lagos

The National Orientation Agency,NOA in Lagos has intensified efforts at sensitising students of secondary schools in the state on the dangers and consequences of engaging in cultism and drug abuse both to the users and the larger society.

The NOA’s Chief Orientation and Mobilisation Officer (COMO) for Ikorodu Local Government Area, Mrs. A. A. Ologunagba disclosed this when she led the agency’s officials to Ansaru-ud-deen Senior Grammar School, Imota on sensitisation drive.

Ologunagba said the programme was designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the negative consequences associated with cultism and drug abuse, emphasising their detrimental impact on individuals, families, and society at large.

According to her, the event was aimed at equipping the students with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions and discourage their involvement in such harmful activities.

Ologunagba spoke about the dangers of cultism, how it lures young people with false promises of protection and belonging, only to entangle them in violence, crime, and loss.

She painted vivid pictures of lives cut short, of families left in anguish, and of promising futures destroyed.

On drug abuse, she emphasised how seemingly harmless experimentation can spiral into addiction, leading to devastating health issues, social problems, and even crime.

In his remarks, the school Acting Vice Principals, Mr. Oyebola O.J. acknowledged the negative impacts of cultism and drug abuse and welcomed the NOA’s efforts in steering the students toward the right path.

No fewer than 220 males and 230 females students attended the sessions as some of them even approached the NOA team privately, seeking further guidance and information on cultism and drug abuse menace.

LAGOS BEGINS 2025 ENTRANCE EXAMINATION INTO STATE MODEL COLLEGES, UPGRADED JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS

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Lagos Begins E-Registration, Payment for 2026 UBE by CAS, Placement Test

The Lagos State Government has announced the commencement of the 2025 Entrance Examination (Screening Test) for admission into the State Model Colleges and Upgraded Junior Secondary Schools.

Director, Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Orunsolu Adebayo confirmed this in a statement signed by the Board’s Public Affairs Officer, Onadipe Opebere.

Adebayo said the statement was to inform the Parents, Guardians, Headteachers, Proprietors and Proprietresses of Primary 6 Pupils transiting to Junior Secondary Schools, that the Exams Board is set to conduct the Entrance Examination for the eligible candidates.

The Director hinted that Screening Test will begin on Wednesday, 28th to Thursday, 29th May, 2025 . He noted that the Screening Test will be conducted through Computer Based Test (CBT) He said that the test will hold at Five (5 ) designated CBT Centres across the State.

Mr. Orunsolu advised that all duly registered applicants to revisit the Board’s Portal : https://examsboard.lagosstate.gov.ng with their USERNAME and PASSWORD to print out a clear copy of their sitting arrangements.

Candidates are expected to go to the examination venue with the Exam Slip (Print Out) and ensure that they arrive at the venues as early as possible.

While clarifying that the Screening Test is the only yardstick for admission into JSS1 in any Model Colleges, he disclosed that only Primary 6 Pupils are eligible for the Test.

The Candidates that pass and meet the required Cut-Off Marks will be offered admission into any of the Model Colleges and Upgraded Junior Secondary Schools irrespective of his / her First or Second choice.

The Lagos State Exams Board solicits for the cooperation of Parents/Guardians and all other Stakeholders for a successful exercise.

CEOAFRICA Boss Set to Attend ACALAN Workshop on Empowering African Languages

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CEOAFRICA Boss Set to Attend ACALAN Workshop on Empowering African Languages

The Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, is set to attend the upcoming Operational Workshop for the establishment of the ACALAN Continental Youth Committee for the Empowerment of African Languages (ACYCEAL).

CEOAFRICA is a leading online media organization dedicated to enhancing to enhance the visibility of Africans to the world and the world to Africa.

This significant event, organized by the African Academy of Languages, ACALAN, the language agency of African Union will take place at the African Union Commission Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from May 27th to 28th, 2025.

The workshop, themed “Empowering African Youth through Language Innovation and Digital Technologies,” reflects a vital commitment to promoting African languages in the digital space.

“I will be there to contribute to the mobilization of youth engagement and foster innovative strategies that will drive linguistic empowerment across the continent,” Prince Cletus expressed.

This initiative aligns with several key frameworks laid out by the African Union, including Aspiration 5 of the AU Agenda 2063, the Language Plan of Action for Africa (LPAA), and the ACALAN Strategic Plan (2022-2032).

Through his participation, Prince Cletus aims to engage in expert presentations, panel discussions, and working groups focused on drafting the operational framework and actionable plans for ACYEAL.

Additionally, he expresses his eagerness to be involved in discussions surrounding important policies that promote African languages, particularly in the context of Assembly Decision 796 regarding Kiswahili and the Decade of African Languages.

Prince Cletus looks forward to leveraging this workshop as a valuable networking opportunity. “Collaboration among youth, developers, and investors in language technology is vital for achieving our goals,” he stated.

His role on the African Languages Week Coordinating Committee (ALWCC) further underscores his dedication to preserving African linguistic heritage and ensuring it thrives in the digital age.

The upcoming workshop promises to be a landmark event for empowering youth and preserving cultural identity through innovative solutions in language technology.

Ex-Commandos Celebrate Goodhead David Ibinabo Academic Excellence, Scores 364 in 2025 UTME

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Ex-Commandos Celebrate Goodhead David Ibinabo Academic Excellence, Scores 364 in 2025 UTME

By: Theresa Moses

Published by Blacktalker

The Old Students’ Association of Command Day Secondary School, (CDSSJ), Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Rukuba Barracks, Jos, Plateau State popularly known as the “Ex-Commandos” Association, has identified with one of their own for his exceptional academic achievement.

The student, Goodhead David Ibinabo, presently in CDSSJ, emerged as one of the top scorers in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) with 364 marks.

According to Comrade Solomon Gamdi, Examination Officer at CDSSJ, in his words, “David, is an embodiment of excellence which defines our alma mater and the Ex-Commando community nationwide.

Explaining further, he stated that “David, last year at the age of 15 attempted UTME and scored above 300 marks but was disqualified due to age limitations.

“Determined to succeed, he enrolled again this year under better circumstances, and by God’s grace, he has delivered an outstanding performance. His success is a beacon of hope for students across Nigeria.”

David is also a recipient of the prestigious scholarship programme funded by Major General O.O. Oshinoa (Rtd.), former General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division and former Commander of the Special Task Force (STF), Jos.

“This brilliant young man is a direct product of General Oshinoa’s vision and generosity,” Comrade Gamdi added. “Just last week, the General disbursed nearly ₦600,000 in scholarships to support students in our school. His commitment to youth development and education continues to transform lives. We are deeply grateful.”

Based on his outstanding academic brilliance, the Ex-Commandos Association has is making arrangement to formally recognize David Ibinabo at the forthcoming Annual National Executives Council Meeting alongside other distinguished students and alumni for upholding the values of leadership, discipline, and academic excellence.

The Ex-Commandos Association is a network of alumni from Command Day Secondary School, Jos. The Association fosters lifelong bonds, promotes educational advancement, and champions nation-building through leadership, mentorship, and community development.

Command Day Secondary School, Jos, located within Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Rukuba Barracks, remains one of the pillars of academic distinction within this network.

Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe Champions Transformational Leadership at London Business School Women’s Day Forum

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Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe Champions Transformational Leadership at London Business School Women’s Day Forum

As part of this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations, the London Business School (LBS) Alumni Community Nigeria has hosted a private brunch and fireside chat that placed the spotlight firmly on one of Nigeria’s most impactful business leaders, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe.

Held in Lagos, the event gathered an elite group of C-suite executives from across finance, FMCG, investment, and other critical sectors for a powerful conversation on leadership, resilience, and the shared responsibility to “Accelerate Action,” this year’s global Women’s Month theme. But it was Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s presence and insights that set the tone for the day.

As the first female CEO in Fidelity Bank’s history, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe has not only shattered ceilings but redefined what bold, values-driven leadership looks like in Nigeria’s banking sector. Drawing from her remarkable journey rising through the ranks of a male-dominated industry, she shared personal stories marked by perseverance, strategic thinking, and an unyielding commitment to excellence.

“I have personally never acknowledged the gender glass ceiling in my career—or in anything in my life,” she declared. “When something looks like a barrier, I see it as motivation to go even harder.”

Her words were not merely motivational—they reflected a lived philosophy that has defined her leadership at Fidelity Bank, where she has championed innovation, diversity, and financial inclusion while delivering record-breaking financial results. Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s tenure has become synonymous with transformation—not just for the bank, but for the broader financial services industry.

She spoke candidly about the power of discipline, self-belief, and taking calculated risks. “Don’t fear failure. It’s part of the process,” she added. “Every misstep has taught me something that helped me get better.” These insights resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom saw reflections of their own challenges and aspirations in her journey.

But Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe also emphasized the broader dimensions of leadership—particularly the importance of balance in the lives of modern women. “Learning to balance family and career is not just important for business success, it’s important for success in life,” she noted, reminding participants that holistic well-being is a leadership imperative.

A passionate advocate for gender equity, she acknowledged the progress made in the financial sector, pointing out that 11 of Nigeria’s 26 commercial bank CEOs are now women. Still, her call was clear: “That’s progress, but we must not stop there. We want to see that number go to 14, 15, and beyond.”

The London Business School, renowned for producing global business leaders, is home to a vibrant Nigerian alumni community committed to impact. Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s conversation was a reminder of the kind of leadership that truly drives change—one that is visionary, courageous, and deeply rooted in purpose.

“I’m truly impressed by the quality of professionals in this network,” she said. “It’s refreshing and inspiring to see so many women leading with excellence.”

In closing, Akintayo Sanwo-Olu, President of the LBS Alumni Community in Nigeria, echoed the spirit of the gathering: “As a community, we’re not just talking about change—we’re building it. At LBS, we are committed to empowering more women to lead across industries and actively changing the narrative around gender and leadership.”

Indeed, in Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the community found not just a speaker, but a symbol of what’s possible when women lead with vision and purpose

Governor Soludo Constructs Ultra-Modern Trauma Centre at Ojukwu Varsity

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Anambra Government Sets Up Committee to Recover Encroached Lands

As part of its ongoing transformation of the health sector in Anambra State, Governor Charles Soludo is constructing a state-of-the-art trauma centre at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital, Amaku- Awka, the first state-owned facility in the Southeast to enhance healthcare for trauma patients.

The trauma centre is nearing completion and will help enhance healthcare delivery for accident victims and other trauma-related cases in the state and the Southeast region, considering the strategic location of the centre.

Recently, the governor restored electricity to the Uli campus of the institution after 21 years of blackout. He also provided it with access to the internet and WiFi in public places within the campus, to further deepen the school’s access to the digital world.

According to the State’s Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor Soludo in his infrastructural drive to revamp the healthcare sector, has upgraded primary healthcare centres and constructed five new general hospitals, equipping them with first-rate facilities and skilled personnel for efficient, affordable, and quality healthcare services.

Over 1,000 health workers, including doctors, nurses, consultants, pharmacists, and medical laboratory technicians, have been employed, while also introducing telemedicine to the State for efficient healthcare solutions.

Because of his pragmatic approach to healthcare delivery in the State, the Governor has earned the prestigious award of the best-performing governor in primary healthcare delivery in the Southeast and Nigeria overall.

The prestigious awards were presented by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Aliko Dangote Foundation, the Federal Ministry of Health, and the United Nations Children and Education Fund (UNICEF).

With that, Anambra received a total of $1,200,000 for the awards, $500,000 for the feat in the Southeast, and $700,000 for overall excellence in the Primary Health Care Leadership Challenge.

Lagos to Build 17 CNG Stations as MOFE Foundation, NAPS Flag Off Conversion Training for 500 South-West Students

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Lagos to Build 17 CNG Stations as MOFE Foundation, NAPS Flags Off Conversion Training for 500 South-West Students

The Lagos State Government through IBILE Holdings is building 17 CNG filling stations to be completed by October 2025.

Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, made the announcement at the flag-off of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion training for 500 polytechnic students in the southwest.

Blacktalker reports that he event organised by MOFE Foundation in partnership with the National Association of Polytechnic Students, NAPS, aims to promote sustainability, reduce emissions and empower the next generation of technicians and engineers in Nigeria’s growing energy sector.

Osiyemi said the state is actively involved in CNG conversions and infrastructure development, stressing the importance of making CNG accessible to all and ensuring availability at stations for vehicles converted to run on gas.

He threw his weight behind the training, saying it will boost student employability and increase the number of skilled CNG professionals across the region.

The Commissioner added that the initiative would also reduce transport costs by up to 70 percent, mitigating the effects of subsidy removal by the federal government.

His Energy and Mineral Resources counterpart, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, who outlined the climate benefits of CNG, praised the training for bridging the gap between academia and industry while promoting job creation and economic transformation.

Ogunleye who was represented by the Deputy Director Oil and Gas Department, Mr Aileru Tajudeen, noted that there is ongoing inter-ministerial collaboration to ensure quick access to CNG stations and wider conversion services in Lagos State.

“CNG is the future — cleaner, cheaper, and more sustainable than fossil fuels,” he said, encouraging nationwide adoption.

Also present at the flag off ceremony, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, highlighted the importance of youth potential in driving economic and social change.

Ogunlende who was represented by the state’s Youth Ambassador, Obadare Adenekan said the training aligns with the Ministry’s youth empowerment vision which stems from the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Developmental Agenda of the state government.

Delivering the keynote address, the MOFE Foundation’s convener, 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.

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.

The event also awarded notable individuals and stakeholders in the education, transportation, energy and engineering sectors for their valuable contributions to the development Nigeria.

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