The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in collaboration with Viedenburg Energy Resources, has flagged off the CNG Autogas Conversion Training 2026 as part of efforts to promote clean energy adoption and build human capacity across the Niger Delta region.
The ceremony took place at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, drawing participants from different states within the region. The initiative focuses on equipping young people with the technical skills required to convert petrol and diesel vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), maintain conversion systems, and adapt to emerging energy technologies.
Speaking at the event, Nigeria Startup News reports the Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and Chairman, House Committee on NDDC, Rt. Hon. KufreAbasi Edidem, commended the Commission’s commitment to clean energy and youth development. He conveyed the commendation of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly to the current NDDC Board led by Chief Samuel Ogbuku for what he described as holistic and forward-thinking development across the Niger Delta region.
“A few months ago, it was the tree-planting campaign for a safer environment; today, it is a bold step towards reducing carbon emissions through the transition from fossil fuel to cleaner CNG energy,” Edidem observed.
He advised the trainees to make the most of the opportunity, stressing that their future relevance in the labour market would depend on the knowledge and practical skills they acquire during and after the programme.
In his remarks, NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Sir Victor Antai, described the training as more than a conventional exercise. According to him, the programme serves as a catalyst for empowerment and transformation across the Niger Delta, which he referred to as Nigeria’s energy backbone.
Antai highlighted the growing demand for skilled professionals who can handle CNG vehicle conversion and system maintenance. He explained that the training is critical to preparing citizens for the ongoing technological shift in the energy sector.
Earlier, the Head of Training for Viedenburg Energy Resources, Alhaji Saidu, described the participants as fortunate pioneer beneficiaries of what he called a life-changing initiative by the NDDC. He noted that CNG represents an emerging technology currently powering machines across multiple sectors of the Nigerian economy.
Also speaking, Apst. Abasiandikan Nkono, Akwa Ibom State Representative on the NDDC Board, said the programme aligns with the state government’s broader vision for youth empowerment and sustainable development.
“NDDC is unlocking doors for our youth! The CNG training aligns seamlessly with the state government’s vision. The opportunity is endless, and we’re grateful to NDDC for empowering our youth to replicate and share their skills,” Nkono stated.
Barrister Ismaeel Ahmed, Executive Chairman of PICNG, who was represented by Olayinka Rufai, described the transition to CNG as necessary for the country’s future.
“The transition to CNG is a national imperative for energy security, economic resilience, and sustainability.
This training program addresses key challenges, building conversion capacity, ensuring safety standards, creating jobs, and boosting CNG adoption.
Trainees are pioneers of Nigeria’s energy transformation, competence and integrity will drive success in the Niger Delta Region,” he said.
The NDDC reaffirmed its commitment to youth development, urging participants to remain dedicated to the training, which it described as a source of hope and opportunity.
Other dignitaries present at the ceremony included Apst. Abasiandikan Nkono, Akwa Ibom State Representative in the NDDC; Apst. Samuel Ekah, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on NDDC Matters; Lyna Okara, Director, Commercial and Industrial Development, NDDC; Mr. Olayinka, representative of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas; and Prof. Enoidem Usoro, Rector of the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre, among others.
