The Lagos government has joined energy, transportation, and education stakeholders to launch the compressed natural gas conversion training for 500 polytechnic students in the South-West.

The event, held on Wednesday in Lagos, was organised by Mofe Foundation in partnership with the National Association of Polytechnic Students.

It brought together 500 polytechnic students from across the South-West states to address the skills gap in the CNG sector.

The initiative aims to promote sustainability, reduce emissions, and empower the next generation of technicians and engineers in Nigeria’s growing energy sector.

Speakers highlighted Nigeria’s abundant natural gas reserves and emphasised the urgent need to harness its economic and environmental potential.

They explained that natural gas is cleaner and safer than petrol, urging its adoption to support national energy security and reduce costs.

Transportation commissioner Oluwaseun Osiyemi said Lagos was actively involved in CNG conversions and infrastructure development. He noted that through IBILE Holdings, Lagos was building 17 CNG filling stations to be completed by October.

He added that the training will boost student employability and increase the number of skilled CNG professionals across the region.

Mr Osiyemi said the initiative would also reduce transport costs by up to 70 per cent, mitigating the effects of subsidy removal.

The energy and mineral resources commissioner, Biodun Ogunleye, described CNG as the future.

Mr Ogunleye praised the training for bridging the gap between academia and industry while promoting job creation and economic transformation. He noted ongoing inter-ministerial collaboration to ensure quick access to CNG stations and wider conversion services in Lagos.

The youth and social development commissioner, Mobolaji Ogunlende, highlighted youth potential in driving economic and social change.

(NAN)