The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has launched a training programme in collaboration with OMAA Motors aimed at converting petrol vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG) powered vehicles.

The programme, held in Owerri, Imo state, commenced on March 18th and will run through the 21st of March 2025, with a cohort of 60 technicians taking part in the initiative.

At the official flag-off ceremony, the NADDC Director-General, Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, emphasised the critical role of acquiring the necessary skills and licenses for successful vehicle conversion.

“If you don’t have people converting vehicles, investors in gas won’t come,” he explained, highlighting the need for a skilled workforce to drive the expansion of CNG infrastructure across the country.

Osanipin also spotlighted the recent launch of the Mobile Refill Unit in Lagos, which will soon be deployed nationwide to support the growing fleet of converted vehicles.

“As more vehicles are converted to CNG, these refilling units will become a key part of the national infrastructure.

Following the training, participants will be encouraged to apply for conversion certificates, enabling them to begin their careers as certified vehicle conversion technicians,” he said.

The NADDC, in its X, said it would collaborate with gas providers to establish CNG fueling stations, ensuring the sustainability of the initiative.

Speaking on behalf of the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, Commissioner for Youth, Dr Emeka Mandela, commended NADDC for its foresight and pledged the state’s support for the initiative.

Mandela also announced that the State Government would fund licenses for four of the participants and expressed plans to empower more youth in the coming years.