CNG Conversion Training: 50 Women Empowered in Edo State
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CNG Conversion Training: 50 Women Empowered in Edo State
By Adesuwa Ehimuan
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) in collaboration with Edo State Government and the Lady Mechanic Initiative, has trained 50 young women in Edo State on the conversion of petrol vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). The graduation ceremony was held at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, Edo State.
The training which is part of the government’s efforts to expand CNG conversion centers across the country, aims to empower women and girls.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, the Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Imaan Ibrahim, noted that the program is designed to position women at the forefront of the national automotive industry.
She emphasized that her ministry will embark on similar training to open up male-dominated sectors to women across the country and called for a change in attitude towards career choices among women.
In his opening speech, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, assured women in the state of continued support and empowerment to grow the state’s GDP.
He announced that approval has been given for the training and empowerment of 54,000 women within the next four years to improve the livelihood of families. The Governor was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Musa Ikhilor.
The Coordinator Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani said, ”empowering women cannot be overstated. When we empower women, we empower families, communities, and entire nations. Educated and economically independent women become strong pillars of our society, driving economic growth, promoting social justice, and raising healthier families. When you empower women, you are actually giving them their voice and their strength”.
Mrs Anani further stated, this training is more than just a technical exercise; it represents a beacon of hope for our women, especially those in the automotive sector. Empowering women with skills in CNG conversion, we are not only enhancing their economic prospects but also contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
The Director General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Osanipin, stated that Edo State was chosen as the first state for the initiative due to its high number of lady mechanics and early adoption of CNG technology. Mr. Osanipin also revealed plans to promote the use of new energy vehicles.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, represented by Barrister Ifeoma Williams, praised the inclusion of women in Nigeria’s energy transition, describing the training as more than technical instruction but “a conversion of perception about what women can do and where they belong.
“You are not just mechanics; you are movement makers,” Williams told the graduates. “Skills-led industrialisation and energy-linked empowerment are two pillars of our new national industrial policy, and you represent that vision in action.
Sandra Aguebor, widely recognised as Nigeria’s first female mechanic, received accolades from both ministers for her pioneering role. Her Lady Mechanic Initiative continues to mentor and train women across the country.
In her remarks, Engineer Sandra Aguebor stated that it was her passion for the job of a mechanic that enhance her success urging the graduands to be committed to achieve success.
As the newly trained mechanics received their certificates, applause filled the hall, symbolising a national shift—not only in the energy sector but in the mindset about women’s roles in industry.
A beneficiary of the program, Miss Lisa Okhomina, noted that the training was impactful and pledged to motivate others to enroll in similar programs.
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