Jigawa invests N132m in CNG conversion training
The Jigawa State Government says it has invested over N132 million in developing a training centre for the conversion of natural gas in Dutse, the state capital.
This was disclosed on Tuesday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Power and Energy, Musa Alhassan.
Briefing newsmen on the development at the ministry’s conference room in Dutse, Alhassan said the training centere 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” and focused on the conversion of vehicles from petrol to Compressed Natural Gas.
Alhassan revealed that the state government will soon award a contract for the conversion of 25 vehicles from the petrol system to natural gas. This, he said, is part of the government’s efforts to reduce reliance on petrol.
In addition to the vehicle conversion project, the PS stated that the state government will also sponsor the training of 20 people in converting 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.
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.
Moreover, the PS commended the State government for its commitment to promoting the use of natural gas as an alternative fuel source.
He expressed confidence that the government’s efforts would enhance energy security and support 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 stated.
He then urged participants to take the training seriously, saying it would 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 programme. 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, added, “I’m thrilled to be one of the participating technicians in this training programme. 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.”
