NDDC Empowers 500 Niger Delta Youths Through Specialized Training in Compressed Natural Gas Autogas Conversion

The NDDC concludes a 500-youth training program in CNG technology, aiming to turn the Niger Delta into a hub for sustainable vehicle engine conversion.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 19, 2026, 7:33 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from NDDC News

Pioneering the Transition to Sustainable Fuel

The Niger Delta Development Commission recently marked the graduation of 500 youths from across nine states following an intensive six-week certification program focused on Compressed Natural Gas technology. During the ceremony held at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre in Akwa Ibom, officials emphasized that the move toward CNG represents a cleaner, safer, and significantly more affordable alternative to traditional petroleum products. By equipping local residents with these specific technical capabilities, the commission intends to position the Niger Delta as a central node for automotive retrofitting and engine conversion services within the broader Nigerian economy.

Strategic Partnerships for Regional Economic Transformation

The implementation of this energy policy is the result of a coordinated effort between the NDDC and the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative. The partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, is designed to facilitate local technology transfer and provide a structured pathway for youth and women to enter the auto manufacturing and production infrastructure sectors. Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku highlighted that the program seeks to turn persistent regional challenges, such as unemployment and limited training access, into tangible economic opportunities through the adoption of evolving global energy standards.

Governmental Support for Green Energy Initiatives

State leadership has expressed strong support for the commission's focus on renewable and sustainable energy solutions. Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, commended the NDDC for aligning its human capacity development goals with the federal government's Renewed Hope Agenda. Observations from state officials suggest that while the Niger Delta has historically served as the backbone of Nigeria’s fossil fuel economy, the future of the region depends on its ability to adapt to sustainable energy trends. This shift is expected to stimulate local investment in Nigeria’s abundant gas markets while expanding the government’s revenue base through modernized technology.