Governor invests N132m training officials in CNG conversion
The Jigawa State Government says it has invested over N132 million in developing a training center for the conversion of natural gas in Dutse, the state capital.
This was disclosed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power and Energy, Engineer Musa Alhassan.
According to Alhassan, on Tuesday, while briefing journalists on the ongoing training programme, taking place at the ministry’s conference room, Dutse, he explained that the training center is part of the state government’s efforts to promote the use of natural gas as an alternative fuel source.
“We are committed to enhancing energy security, reducing reliance on fuels, and supporting economic growth through the provision of easy access to renewable energy,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary explained that the workshop was tagged “Train the Trainers” workshop for the conversion of vehicles from petrol to Compressed Natural Gas.
He further revealed that the state government will soon award a contract for the conversion of 25 vehicles from petrol system to the compressed natural gas system, stressing that, “it is part of the government’s efforts to reduce its reliance on petrol.”
In addition to the vehicle conversion project, the also PS stated that the state government will sponsor the training of 20 staff to learn more about the conversion of vehicles from the petrol system to CNG.
“The beneficiaries will be drawn from the state Ministry of Power and Energy and the Association of Automobile Technicians, Jigawa State chapter,” he noted.
Engineer Alhassan also emphasised the importance of the training program, saying it will equip the beneficiaries with the necessary skills to convert vehicles to run on natural gas. “This will not only reduce our reliance on petrol but also create job opportunities for our people,” he said.
Moreso, the Permanent Secretary commended the state government for its commitment to promoting the use of natural gas as an alternative fuel source.
He expressed the government’s efforts will go a long way in enhancing energy security and supporting economic growth in the state.
“The training program is expected to last for several weeks, during which the participants will be taught the basics of vehicle conversion and maintenance.”
He then urged the participants to take the training seriously, saying it will equip them with the necessary skills to succeed in the industry.
Commenting on the expectations from the training, a participant, Haruna Lawan said “I’m excited to be part of this training program. As an automobile technician, I’ve always been interested in learning about new technologies that can benefit our community. I expect to gain hands-on experience in converting vehicles to run on natural gas, which will not only reduce our reliance on petrol but also create job opportunities for us.”
Another participant Musa Abdurrahman explained that “I’m thrilled to be one of the participating technicians in this training program. As a mechanic. I’m eager to learn and prove myself. I expect this training to equip me with the skills and knowledge to convert vehicles to run on natural gas, which will not only benefit our environment but also provide me with a new source of income.”
