Edo State Govt Empowers 50 Women in CNG Conversion Skills

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By Paulinus Sunday

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The Edo State Government has empowered 50 women in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion, as part of a strategic initiative to boost female participation in the automotive sector and promote alternative energy solutions.

The training programme, executed in partnership with the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and the Lady Mechanic Initiative, marks a significant step in supporting women through clean energy and technical skill development.

At the closing ceremony held at the New Festival Hall, Government House in Benin City, the theme, “CNG Conversion: A New Horizon for Women in the Automotive Industry,” set the tone for a transformative event.

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Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to women’s empowerment as a driver of inclusive economic growth.

“I just want to say that as a State we recognize the need to empower women,” he said. “We believe empowering women is not an issue of social justice or equality, but something that makes smart economic sense. The more women you empower, the more you ensure economic growth.”

Highlighting the economic benefits of gender equality, he added, “Studies have been done that say when women are given equal opportunities in the workplace, there will be economic growth. Some figures have put it to a growth of about 7 trillion dollars if women are given enough opportunity that equals that of men. So in Edo State, we are reflecting this vision and trend of empowering women.”

The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, stressed the importance of integrating women into Nigeria’s industrial and clean energy transitions.

“This programme is not about CNG conversion or technical skills; it is about rewriting the script of opportunity,” she stated. “It is about embedding women at the heart of our national industrial and clean energy transition, not as passive beneficiaries, but as drivers of change, leaders of innovation, and custodians of transformation.”

Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, underlined the broader impact of female empowerment on national development. “The importance of empowerment cannot be overstated. When we empower women, we empower families, communities, and the entire nation,” she said.

“Educated and economically independent women become a strong pillar for our society; driving economic growth, promoting social justice, and raising healthier families. As I always say, when you empower women, you are actually giving them a voice and their strength.”

She emphasized the relevance of promoting cleaner, more affordable energy alternatives, especially following the fuel subsidy removal. “These initiatives align perfectly with our administration’s commitment to promoting cleaner and more affordable energy solutions. With the removal of fuel subsidies, the need for alternative energy sources has become more pressing than ever.”

She also encouraged more women to enter Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. “We should encourage our girls in STEM. It’s very important. Women are taking over the industry,” she said. “By empowering women with skills in CNG conversion, we are not only enhancing their economic prospects, but also contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. CNG offers a valuable solution. And by training women in this field, we are taking a significant step towards a more sustainable future.”

She urged the new graduates to “take full advantage and apply their newfound skills to creating meaningful impact in their communities.”

The Director-General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, praised Edo State for being at the forefront of CNG adoption. He acknowledged the high number of female mechanics in the state and highlighted NADDC’s commitment to technical education and green energy.

“Edo State is setting an example in CNG adoption,” Osanipin stated. “We are proud to partner in training women through mechatronics programmes and to promote CNG technology.”

He also announced plans to establish a state-of-the-art automotive training centre and an electric vehicle charging station at the University of Benin. “These facilities will help drive industrial growth and innovation across the state,” he said.

Dr. Sandra Aguebor, Nigeria’s first female mechanic and President of the Lady Mechanic Initiative, expressed appreciation to all stakeholders and pledged continued support for women in technical fields.

“I want to thank the Edo State Government and all our partners for believing in this vision. Together, we are opening new doors for women in the automotive and energy sectors,” she said.

The event concluded with the presentation of certificates and starter packs to the graduating female mechanics. Gifts were also presented to special guests, including Mrs. Anani, as a show of appreciation for their dedication to women empowerment.

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