Ogun State Trains Automotive Artisans On CNG Conversion, Maintenance, Collaborates With World Bank

ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – The Ogun State government has launched an innovative training program aimed at equipping automotive artisans with advanced skills in automotive mechatronics.

This initiative addresses the growing need for expertise in compressed natural gas (CNG) conversion and maintenance across the state.

The training programme is part of the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), a World Bank-funded initiative designed to foster economic development and skill acquisition.

In its first phase, the program has enrolled no fewer than 40 automotive artisans from the three senatorial districts of Ogun State.

This strategic approach ensures equitable access to the training while empowering local craftsmen with cutting-edge automotive knowledge.

The measure, according to the the Ogun State government, is to support and enhance the capacity of artisans in the automotive industry in the state.

The training also includes conversion of vehicle engines from petrol to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). The CNG training component involves the design and installation of CNG fuel systems in compliance with all applicable safety codes and standards.

Speaking at one of the practical session, held at Abeokuta, the OGSTEP Skills Sector Project Manager, Mr. Fatai Osunsanya, said that the training programme which started three months ago is aimed at upskilling the selected artisans with modern techniques and knowledge in auto maintenance as well as improve the relevance and access to the traditional apprentice training system.

The Project Manager said that the training covered, auto-mechatronics, auto-electrical, CNG Conversion, digital literacy, adult literacy and health and safety.

Mr. Osunsanya further explained that the trainees were selected from all the mechanic clusters across the state to participate in the pilot training programme.

The Lead Facilitator, Mr. Osokoya Babatunde, stated that the CNG training initiative was not meant to eradicate the use of petrol but to serve as alternative for vehicles.

He advised the participants to put into practice all the new learnings and skills they have learnt during the training programme.

Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Mr Haruna Akinfenwa from Abeokuta South Local Government and Mr. Sulaimon Oyekanmi from Sagamu Local Government appreciated the organizers of the programme, promising to step down the training to others in their various clusters.