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.