FG Introduces CNG Training for NYSC Members to Boost Youth Employment

The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) training into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme as part of efforts to create more opportunities for Nigerian youths and support the country’s clean energy transition.

The initiative was officially sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Abuja by key government agencies and stakeholders within the youth, automotive, and energy sectors.

According to officials involved in the project, the programme is designed to equip corps members with practical technical skills in CNG vehicle conversion, maintenance, and safety procedures. The training is expected to prepare young Nigerians for employment opportunities within the growing alternative energy industry.

The collaboration involves several agencies, including the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiatives (Monitoring & Delivery), the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), NYSC, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, and the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, government representatives explained that the move aligns with the Federal Government’s broader plans to promote youth empowerment, innovation, economic diversification, and sustainable energy solutions across the country.

The programme is also coming at a time when the adoption of CNG is gaining attention in Nigeria following the removal of fuel subsidy and the rising cost of petrol. Officials noted that one of the major goals is to bridge the shortage of trained and certified CNG technicians nationwide.

Under the arrangement, corps members with backgrounds in mechanical engineering, electrical/electronic engineering, auto mechanics, and related technical fields will be given priority for the training during their service year.

Beyond training, participants are expected to benefit from certification opportunities, internships, and possible industry connections after service through partnerships with accredited CNG conversion centres and automotive organisations.

The Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council assured that the agency would provide technical support, curriculum development, certification standards, and funding assistance for the programme.

NYSC leadership also described the initiative as a timely addition to the SAED programme, highlighting that the nationwide NYSC structure and orientation camp system would help ensure smooth implementation across the country.

Officials further stated that the partnership represents a practical example of government agencies working together to address unemployment while preparing Nigerian youths for emerging opportunities in the energy and automotive industries.

The agreement also includes implementation plans, pilot rollout strategies, training standards, monitoring processes, and certification frameworks to ensure the programme runs effectively nationwide.

With Nigeria gradually embracing alternative energy solutions, many believe this initiative could open a new career path for thousands of young Nigerians while contributing to the country’s long-term economic and environmental goals.

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