The Chairman of MOMAS Group, Engr. Kola Balogun, has laid the foundation for the €3 million Momas Technical Vocational and Educational Training Centre for Electro-Technology in Ogun State. The project, funded through the African Union in partnership with the African Union Development Agency and the Skills Initiative for Africa programme, is expected to strengthen technical education and support youth empowerment. According to a statement released on Saturday, MOMAS secured the grant under SIFA’s Funding Window 1, which supports large-scale skills development projects across Africa.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Mr. Adamson Oluwatosin Ayinde, described the centre as a major step toward addressing Nigeria’s manpower needs, especially within the power sector. He said the project responds directly to critical shortages in smart electricity metering, electrical wiring and maintenance, renewable energy technologies and electro-technology safety practices, adding that these skills are essential for national growth. Ayinde commended Engr. Balogun for what he called patriotism, foresight and commitment to national development, noting MOMAS’ decision to exceed the mandatory 10 percent counterpart funding.
Ayinde explained that the initiative supports the Federal Government’s commitment to developing a technologically skilled workforce while reducing dependence on foreign artisans. He said the centre represents opportunity, empowerment and hope for young Nigerians interested in employment or entrepreneurship. According to him, “Today’s ceremony marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward a skilled and globally competitive workforce.”
Also speaking, AUDA-NEPAD representative, Mr. Gemechu Berhanu Kusa, said the centre represents the beginning of a transformative training hub for young Africans. He said, “This centre is a bold step in our shared mission to empower Africa’s youth. Technical and vocational education is not a second choice, but a first-class pathway to opportunity, dignity and sustainable livelihoods.” Kusa highlighted the centre’s focus on electrotechnology and renewable energy, especially solar photovoltaic systems, noting that these areas can help address youth unemployment and Nigeria’s energy needs.
He added that the institution will develop cutting-edge curricula aligned with national standards, provide scholarships and ensure inclusivity, while supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He said the project is designed to prepare young people for global opportunities in engineering, energy and renewable technology fields.
In her goodwill message, the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, praised MOMAS for its vision and said the project is timely. According to her, “The nation is in desperate need of skilled manpower to drive infrastructure development, industrial growth and technological advancement.” She called for collaboration from the Lagos State Government, the Federal Government and key stakeholders in engineering and energy to maximise the impact of the centre. She added that the Nigerian Society of Engineers fully supports MOMAS Group, stressing the economic value it will contribute.
In his remarks, the Chairman of MOMAS Group, Engr. Balogun, said the centre aims to build on previous initiatives that focused on empowering young people with practical skills. He said support from NEPAD and the German government will enable the centre to acquire modern equipment and expand its training programmes, creating opportunities for skilled personnel to work in Europe and other regions. He noted that the centre will contribute to Nigeria’s renewable energy goals by preparing technicians for solar panel installation, solar battery systems and energy storage technologies. According to him, “The centre will provide the needed skills for installing solar panels, solar batteries and energy storage systems, thereby complementing the significant investments already made by government in renewable energy.”
Balogun stated that construction of the building is expected to be completed within a year, with NEPAD directly funding the contractor. The long-term goal is to create an institution that is internationally recognised for training top-tier engineers and technicians.
Group Managing Director of MOMAS, Engr. Hammed Abiodun, described the event as a landmark moment for the organisation. He said, “This recognition by the German government is a testament to our long-standing commitment to adding value to society, especially the youth.” Abiodun stressed that the future depends on skill acquisition, noting examples from countries like China where practical skills have driven economic expansion. He said the organisation aims to harness Nigeria’s large youth population by training and reshaping them to contribute meaningfully to national development.
