In a strategic stakeholder engagement aimed at advancing Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) reform, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to driving digital identity and data integration as critical enablers of national planning and inclusive governance.
Engaging with key institutions, including the National Population Commission (NPC), the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the DG highlighted the alignment of CRVS reform with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises digital public infrastructure, efficient service delivery, and data-driven policymaking.
The DG made this disclosure at the National Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Co-ordination Committee Inaugural Meeting, which was held at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Continental Hotel in Abuja.
He underscored the critical role of civil registration and vital statistics (CRVS) in driving evidence-based governance, national planning, and inclusive service delivery across Nigeria.
“The importance of civil registration and vital statistics cannot be overemphasised,” and it is foundational for making informed and insightful decisions at every level of government, that is, federal, state, and local,” he said.
Inuwa emphasised the urgent need for harmonised data systems across government institutions to enable real-time insights, smart planning, and responsive governance. With fragmented data systems continuing to hamper the country’s ability to plan effectively, he stressed that leveraging technology would be key to unlocking progress.
“From registering people at birth, giving them legal identity, and linking that information to national planning and budgeting, technology can help us stitch everything together. Without harmonising our data, we cannot generate the insight we need for national development,” he added.
While giving his assurances that NITDA will provide standards and advisory support to relevant agencies to ensure the digitisation of civil registration processes is seamless and citizen-centric, Inuwa stated that the agency would serve as a key enabler to the CRV digital transformation process.
“At NITDA, our vision is to ensure that the right standards and digital advisory services are in place for all institutions involved in CRVS. We are committed to supporting this committee by enabling the technology that will power seamless, integrated service delivery for all Nigerians,” he mentioned.
By aligning with the National Population Council’s broader agenda to modernise identity management and streamline service delivery, NITDA’s role will be instrumental in developing the digital infrastructure and governance frameworks required to support a unified CRVS platform.
“Digital is a lifestyle now. Nobody wants to fill out forms on paper or move from office to office. Everything must be digital, seamless, and secure,” the DG concluded.
Other dignitaries at the event were the Chairman, Senate Committee on National Identity & National Population, Senator Victor Umeh, Chairman, National Population Commission (NPC), Hon Nasir Isa Kwarra, Statistician General of the Federation and CEO, National Bureau of Statistics, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, DG, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engr. Bisoye Coker-Odusote, ALGON President, Engr Bello Lawal, amongst many others.
DIGITAL IDENTITY AND DATA INTEGRATION TAKE CENTRE STAGE AS NITDA ENGAGES NPC, NIMC, NBS ON CRVS REFORM
Nigeria’s Digital Economy Will Empower Citizens, Bridge Divides, and Drive Unity – DG NITDA
The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to deepening digital literacy, accelerating innovation, and expanding technology infrastructure as key drivers of inclusive national development.
Inuwa said this while delivering an address at the 2-Day Interactive Session on Government–Citizens Engagement, organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation at the iconic Arewa House in Kaduna.
Themed “Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government Engagement for National Unity,” the forum convened high-level stakeholders in government, civil society, academia, and policymakers to reflect on the progress of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in the area of governance delivery and citizen inclusion.
Speaking at the event, Inuwa emphasised that digital transformation is not only central to achieving the eight priority areas outlined by President Tinubu, but also foundational to uniting the country through equitable access to opportunities.
He described the digital economy as a cross-cutting enabler capable of enhancing productivity across all sectors, from agriculture and education to healthcare and financial services.
According to him, “Digital technology is not a vertical sector, it is pervasive and foundational. It powers everything else and provides a framework for inclusive growth.”
The NITDA boss outlined the Agency’s strategic focus around three key pillars: human capital development, digital infrastructure, and innovation-driven entrepreneurship, noting that the Renewed Hope Agenda had brought renewed vision and energy to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), enabling them to act in concert and foster stronger trust between government and the private sector.
On human capital, he noted that Nigeria’s greatest resource is its people, and developing digital skills at scale is crucial to unlocking that potential. Through initiatives such as the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme and the Digital Literacy for All campaign, NITDA has trained over 350,000 individuals in Northern Nigeria since 2023. He explained that the goal is to ensure that by 2027, more than 70 percent Nigerians would have attained basic digital literacy.
To achieve this, Inuwa said NITDA is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Education to embed digital skills into the formal education system from kindergarten to tertiary level. He added that partnerships with the National Universities Commission (NUC) are ongoing to ensure digital literacy becomes part of the general studies curriculum across Nigerian universities.
In addition, NITDA is collaborating with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to train of corps members annually, who in turn serve as digital literacy champions, taking technology skills into rural communities and informal sectors.
Highlighting infrastructure as another critical area, Inuwa announced that the Federal Government had approved the deployment of 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables across the country to expand broadband penetration.
He also stated that three digital centres are currently being built in each state to ensure that underserved and unserved communities can participate meaningfully in the digital economy. Northern Nigeria, with its wide coverage and developmental needs, is expected to benefit immensely from this rollout. So far, 13 IT Community Centres, 101 Digital Economy e-learning Centres and One Cybersecurity Research Centre were established in the last two years.
He also disclosed that the conducive investment climate fostered by President Tinubu’s reforms has sparked renewed interest from global technology companies, with tech giants such as Google and Microsoft bringing significant investments in Nigeria.
Inuwa announced that Nigeria would host two major global technology events in the coming months, GITEX Nigeria in September and the United Nations’ ICT for Governance (ICEGOV) Summit in November—both of which are expected to attract global innovators and investors.
NITDA DEEPENS DIGITAL GENDER INCLUSION WITH IGNITEHER BOOTCAMP, ADVANCING RENEWED HOPE AGENDA FOR INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH
In a powerful demonstration of its commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has launched the second cohort of the IgniteHer Bootcamp for Women Entrepreneurs, a strategic initiative aimed at accelerating gender inclusion and economic empowerment through digital innovation.
The bootcamp, themed “Empowering Women Entrepreneurs for Growth and Innovation”, was launched in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and brought together selected women entrepreneurs from across Nigeria, both physically and virtually, for rigorous training in digital skills, innovation management, business development, and investor readiness.
The NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, who declared the bootcamp open, reaffirmed the Agency’s role in aligning Nigeria’s digital development with the national priorities of reforming the economy for sustained inclusive growth and accelerating economic diversification through industrialisation and digitisation.
“Through IgniteHer, we are actualising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by expanding women’s access to technology and economic opportunity,” he stated.
The DG, who was represented by the agency’s Acting Director of the Digital Literacy and Capacity Building department, Dr. Ahmed Tambuwal, noted that inclusive innovation is a cornerstone of NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0: 2024–2027), which supports national aspirations for inclusive growth, poverty eradication, and youth empowerment.
“We are not merely imparting skills; we are creating self-reliant entrepreneurs, change-makers, and leaders,” he added.
Inuwa disclosed that the IgniteHer Bootcamp is also a key component of the National Gender Digital Inclusion Strategy (NGDIS), through which NITDA is working to empower 12.7 million Nigerian women with digital literacy skills by 2027. He averred that the programme complements broader government efforts to bridge gender gaps, enhance productivity, and reduce unemployment, especially among young women.
Citing a report by the World Wide Web Foundation, the DG emphasised that closing the digital gender gap in Nigeria could unlock an estimated $13 billion in GDP growth over the next decade.
“This training is a step towards harnessing this economic potential and ensuring that women play an integral role in shaping the digital landscape of Nigeria,” he noted.
He therefore called on participants selected from over 12,000 applicants to seize the moment and shape the future of Nigerian entrepreneurship.
While highlighting NITDA’s leadership in strategic partnerships, the DG commended JICA and the Government of Japan for their ongoing collaboration in supporting digital empowerment through programmes like IgniteHer and the iHatch Incubation Programme, which provides startup support, mentorship, and innovation development to early-stage entrepreneurs.
“At NITDA, we believe that inclusive innovation is not just an ideal but a critical strategy that ensures the growth of a stronger economy, the development of smarter solutions, and the existence of more resilient communities. Through IgniteHer, we are dismantling barriers and replacing them with pathways to opportunity,” he concluded.
In his remarks, the Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, reaffirmed Japan’s long-standing commitment to innovation and gender inclusion in Nigeria. He announced that Japan, through JICA, is currently supporting two grant projects worth $30.9 million, focused on improving Nigeria’s startup ecosystem, strengthening the investment climate, and building an inclusive innovation hub.
The Ambassador also referenced the upcoming Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), themed “Co-create Innovative Solutions with Africa”, as further testament to Japan’s dedication to deepening Africa-Japan cooperation on digital transformation and entrepreneurship.
Lead Facilitator of IgniteHer, Hajiya Hafsat Salabi-Dange, described the programme as a catalyst for social and economic transformation. While praising NITDA’s visionary approach to development, she stated that the programme is a movement that is bridging the digital gender divide and fostering economic independence.
Encouraging the participants to remain curious, intentional, and bold, she said, “What you will gain here goes beyond business; it is a tool for community upliftment, national growth, and generational impact.”
Women Affairs Minister Congratulates Comptroller-General of Customs on Tenure Extension
The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has congratulated the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on the extension of his tenure by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
The Minister commended the CG’s exemplary leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to national service, which have been clearly demonstrated in his ongoing reforms and modernization efforts within the Nigeria Customs Service.
In a statement signed on Thursday by her Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Mr Jonathan Eze, the minister stated that his tenure has seen remarkable strides in trade facilitation, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations—contributions that have positively impacted the economic stability and security of the country.
Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim also used the opportunity to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued confidence in capable and patriotic public servants like CG Adeniyi.
“This decision reaffirms Mr. President’s commitment to excellence, continuity, and institutional strength in key sectors of national development.”
She further expressed confidence that the extended tenure of CG Adeniyi will provide the needed continuity to consolidate ongoing reforms and foster deeper collaboration with other government agencies, including those focused on women’s economic empowerment and social development.
“The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs looks forward to working closely with the Nigeria Customs Service under CG Adeniyi’s leadership in areas of mutual interest, particularly in protecting the rights of women and children, combatting trafficking, and promoting inclusive national policies.”
Signed:
Jonathan Eze
Special Adviser on Media to the Minister of Women Affairs
Federal Republic of Nigeria
FRSC CORPS MARSHAL PRAISES FIRST LADY’S ₦110 MILLION SUPPORT TO CRASH VICTIMS, AS KANO STATE GOVERNOR ISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDER ON STRATEGIC ENFORCEMENT ON TRAFFIC LIGHT COMPLIANCE
The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed has expressed profound appreciation to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, for her magnanimous donation of ₦110 million to support victims of road traffic crash. The Corps Marshal described the First Lady’s gesture as an act of uncommon compassion and a demonstration of the Renewed Hope Agenda in action; noting that it will bring relief, dignity, and renewed confidence to the families of the 22 Kano athletes who tragically lost their lives in a fatal road traffic crash earlier this year.
Speaking on the gesture, the Corps Marshal reaffirmed FRSC’s commitment to reducing road traffic crashes to the barest minimum and ensuring that victims receive prompt support.
“This is not just a donation; it is a lifeline. It is a clear message from the Presidency that no Nigerian life is too small to protect, nor family’s pain too insignificant to address. This gesture is in line with the Presidency’s commitment to ensuring the realisation of the 5th Pillar of United Nations Decade of Action on Post-Crash Care.” the Corps Marshal concluded.
On the other hand, in line with the imperatives of reducing road carnages in Kano State, the Executive Governor of Kano State, His Excellency, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has issued an Executive Order for immediate commencement of full-scale aggressive enforcement on all traffic regulations, especially compliance with traffic lights within the Kano metropolis.
To ensure effective implementation of this Order, the Governor directed the Federal Road Safety Corps and Kano Road Traffic Agency (KAROTA) to work in partnership and ensure full compliance with the provisions of the Order.
The Governor emphasised that effective synergy, enhanced enforcement, and proactive public education are critical to reducing crash rates and saving lives on Nigerian roads.
To that end, the Corps Marshal, while reacting to the Order, pledged to heed the Governor’s directive by deepening inter-agency partnership, deploying more road safety personnel to high-risk routes, and intensifying nationwide public enlightenment campaigns.
He also issued a stern warning to all motorists in Kano State that any driver caught violating traffic laws, particularly running red lights, will face the full weight of the law without exception, as reckless behaviour will no longer be tolerated.
The Corps Marshal further called on corporate bodies, state governments, and well meaning Nigerians to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, noting that road safety is a shared responsibility.
Signed:
Olusegun Ogungbemide, mni, FISPON, anipr
Assistant Corps Marshal
Corps Public Education Officer
Federal Road Safety Corps
Headquarters, Abuja
cpeo@frsc.gov.ng
info@frsc.gov.ng
9 August, 2025.
CORPS MARSHAL GRIEVES THE LOSS OF CHIEF AUDU OGBEH, FIRST NATIONAL COORDINATOR OF SPECIAL MARSHALS
The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, mni, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Audu Innocent Ogbeh, Nigeria’s former Minister of Agriculture and the pioneer National Coordinator of the FRSC Special Marshals, describing his death as a monumental loss to the nation and to the Corps family.
According to the Corps Marshal, Chief Audu Ogbeh was not only a statesman of national repute, but also a visionary who understood that saving lives on our roads required the active involvement of citizens. His pioneering work in mobilising volunteer road safety advocates remains a reference point in the history of the Corps.
In a condolence message to the Ogbeh family, the Corps Marshal paid glowing tribute to Chief Ogbeh’s enduring legacy of service, leadership, and patriotism. He noted that as the first National Coordinator of Special Marshals following the establishment of the FRSC in 1988, Chief Ogbeh laid a solid foundation for volunteerism in road safety advocacy, a foundation upon which the scheme continues to thrive decades later.
He further described Chief Ogbeh as a bridge between governance, civil society, and grassroots engagement, whose contributions to agriculture, national development, and road safety have left indelible marks on the country’s history.
On behalf of the Management, Officers, Marshals, and the entire Special Marshals family, the Corps Marshal extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Benue State, the Ogbeh family, and all Nigerians who benefited from his wisdom, mentorship, and selfless service.
The Corps Marshal prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and the strength for his family to bear the monumental loss.
Signed:
Olusegun Ogungbemide, mni, FISPON, anipr
Assistant Corps Marshal
Corps Public Education Officer
Federal Road Safety Corps
Headquarters, Abuja
cpeo@frsc.gov.ng
info@frsc.gov.ng
9 August, 2025.
NADDC, NBTE Conclude 2-Weeks Training on Quality Assurance Assessors for Automotive Industry
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), in collaboration with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), held the closing ceremony of a two-weeks training program for Quality Assurance Assessors (QAAs) under the National Skills Qualification (NSQ) framework on 8th August 2025 at Abuja. The training, specifically focused on the automotive industry, is a key initiative toward building skilled manpower and improving competency-based education in the sector.
The Director-General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, was ably represented by the Director of the Industrial Infrastructure Department (IID), Dr. Nua Omisanya, who emphasized the significance of the program.
“This training became necessary due to the need for more assessors in the automotive industry,” Dr. Omisanya stated. “With more qualified assessors, we can increase our capacity to evaluate learners, build skills, and create job opportunities for youths across the country. This continuous training is vital to ensuring that Nigeria’s automotive workforce is competent and industry-ready.”
He noted that before the training, the Council had only 15 qualified assessors. With the new batch of 30 trainees drawn from the industry, the number will significantly increase, allowing for broader reach and impact in skills development.
“I urge all participants to take this training seriously,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Deputy Director (IID), Mrs. Joke Onireti, highlighted the practical aspects of the training:
“Throughout this training, they have learned how to conduct assessments and make decisions based on defined criteria. Ultimately, your performance will be quality-checked at a higher level to ensure standardization.”
Mr. Olubode Majiyagbe, the lead facilitator, explained that the program equips assessors to deliver and uphold the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) within the automotive sector.
“This training ensures competency-based, nationally standardized, and internationally recognized. The DG deserves commendation for integrating the automotive sector into this system. What we’re doing now is building a foundation for structured and credible qualifications in the industry.”
NADDC reaffirms its commitment to ensuring it creates an enabling environment to foster the growth of the Nigerian Automotive Sector.
NADDC #AutomotiveInnovation #YouthsEmpowerment #skillsdevelopment
NADDC Synergizes with Ondo Rep to Expand CNG Training and Youth Empowerment
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) continues its national drive for skills development and clean mobility with a strategic engagement involving Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero , Member representing Akoko Northeast/Northwest Federal Constituency of Ondo State on the 8th of August 2025
During a courtesy visit to the Council’s Headquarters in Abuja, Hon. Ehindero expressed deep admiration for NADDC’s leadership under Director General Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, applauding the agency’s commitment to technical capacity building and the national CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) transition agenda.
“Your initiatives have been impactful and timely,” Hon. Ehindero highlighted on the President’s focus on technical and vocational education, “it’s clear that your sector remains a key player in achieving our national goals especially as CNG becomes central to easing transportation costs for Nigerians”.
He highlighted the vast potential within his constituency, noting the abundance of energetic, intelligent youth in need of practical skills that can lead to employment or entrepreneurship. “We have an army of active young minds ready to be empowered. I’m here to explore a partnership with NADDC to facilitate training in CNG conversion and other relevant automotive skills. It’s about delivering real benefits to the people of Akoko North through your commendable work.”
In response, Director General, Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin welcomed the proposed collaboration, describing it as timely and necessary. He confirmed that NADDC had previously conducted training programs in Ondo State and met with the state’s leadership to discuss further initiatives.
“We’re currently designing a new training program tailored for Ondo,” the DG shared. “With your input, we can rework the training centers to better serve your constituency. Ikare, historically a major auto parts hub for Ondo, Ekiti, Edo, and parts of Kogi, must be part of this conversation. If adjustments are needed to make that happen, we’re ready to act.”
DG Osanipin emphasized NADDC’s readiness to align programs with the unique strengths and needs of local communities, assuring that this renewed collaboration will contribute meaningfully to youth empowerment, job creation, and the expansion of the CNG ecosystem in Nigeria.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to jointly develop and roll out capacity-building programs that will drive inclusive economic development, support clean energy initiatives, and reinforce Nigeria’s automotive value chain at the grassroots.
NADDC #AutomotiveInnovation #greenmobility #YouthsEmpowerment #skillsdevelopment
NADDC DG Engages Presidential Aide on Capacity Development for CNG Training
Strategic partnership discussed for youth-focused automotive training as part of Nigeria’s clean energy transition. On the
August 8, 2025. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, The Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), welcomed the Special Assistant to the President on Capacity Development, Mr. Sadiq Rabiu, and his delegation at the NADDC headquarters for a courtesy visit centered on potential collaboration to scale up youth training in CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) vehicle conversion, beginning with a pilot in Kano State.
Mr. Rabiu commended NADDC for its critical role in championing Nigeria’s transition to alternative fuel sources, particularly the national push for CNG adoption in the wake of the fuel subsidy removal. He acknowledged the Council’s consistency in promoting CNG across the geo-political zones, stating, “We are proud of the efforts being put in by NADDC. As a regulator, your impact is being felt, and we are here to explore ways we can support and complement this work.”
He emphasized that the initiative was not only about skill acquisition but also creating viable employment opportunities. “We are not just training young people for the sake of it, we are aligning them with companies ready to absorb their skills. Kano is the starting point, but our ambition is to scale this across all local governments,” he noted.
In response, Naddc DG, Osanipin expressed appreciation to Mr. Rabiu for his commitment to youth development and reiterated the shared alignment between NADDC’s regulatory mandate and the capacity development goals of the Presidency.
“For us at NADDC, capacity building is a cornerstone of industry growth. Beyond regulations, we invest heavily in training infrastructure and policy formulation that support both public and private sector growth,” he said.
Highlighting the Council’s recent efforts in Kano, Osanipin noted that NADDC had successfully trained 50 individuals on CNG conversion for motorcycles and tricycles and was set to collaborate with the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGi) in another upcoming session at their Kano Auto Training Centre.
He also emphasized NADDC’s open-door policy for inter-agency collaboration: “We make our training facilities available at no cost to government bodies like PCNGi and ITF, to ensure a broader impact on youth empowerment in the automotive sector.”
Osanipin concluded by acknowledging a local automotive component manufacturer in Kano, Alheri Company, for its role in youth employment and innovation. “We’re supporting local champions like Alheri and helping them expand through state-level engagement. Your contact will be valuable as we strengthen our presence and partnerships in Kano.”
The visit signals stronger inter-governmental collaboration towards upskilling Nigerian youths in the automotive and clean energy space, aligning with the country’s broader energy transition and economic empowerment goals.
NADDC #AutomotiveInnovation #skillsdevelopment #madeinnigeriavehicle #YouthsEmpowerment
NADDC Youth Empowerment Scheme Continues to Garner Momentum as Hon. Dr. Joshua Audu Gana Seeks Automotive Training for Niger State.
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) on 7th August, 2025, welcomed Hon. (Dr)Joshua Audu Gana, Member representing Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency in Niger State, on a courtesy visit aimed at fostering collaboration and development in Nigeria’s automotive sector, particularly in areas of training and alternative fuel adoption.
Welcoming the Honorable Member, the Director-General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, provided an overview of the Council’s role as the Federal Government agency responsible for regulating the automotive industry in Nigeria. He explained that the Council formulates policies, develops initiatives, and promotes products that contribute to the growth of the automotive sector.
“We license and regulate auto assemblers across the country,” the DG noted. “NADDC has introduced several programs and policies aimed at promoting the adoption of new technologies in the sector. One of our key focus areas is capacity building, and we work with technicians, technologists, academics, and other stakeholders who play essential roles in the automotive ecosystem. The industry is vast, and it requires the involvement of many.”
Mr. Osanipin highlighted the Council’s efforts in curriculum development for universities, polytechnics, and technical institutions focusing on training in mechatronics, heavy-duty mechanics, and general automotive engineering.
“Our aim is to build the capacity first,” he said. “You need trained manpower before meaningful investment can follow. That’s why we’ve been deliberate about skilling up the workforce ahead of time.”
He further stated that the Council is actively aligned with the Federal Government’s Energy Transition Policy, which emphasizes Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs)with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to follow in the nearest future.
“In line with this, the Council launched the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for the conversion, calibration, and maintenance of CNG vehicles,” he said. “These standards, structured under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), provide a comprehensive guide for both formal and informal skills training with four distinct certification levels.”
In his response, Hon. Dr. Joshua Audu Gana extended his appreciation to the NADDC Director-General for the warm reception and commended the Council’s efforts in advancing Nigeria’s automotive future.
“I am here today on this courtesy call to seek collaboration and partnership,” Hon. Joshua said. “Our visit aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We may come from different political backgrounds, but we are united in governance, and our goal is to deliver development to the people of Nigeria.”
He emphasized the need for Niger State, especially his constituency, to be included in key development initiatives around CNG and electric mobility. “Under the forward-thinking leadership of our Governor, Niger State is aggressively pursuing development, and we cannot afford to be left behind in the energy transition movement,” he said.
Hon. Joshua revealed that he had personally conducted an assessment across his federal constituency and discovered significant skills gaps, especially in modern automotive technologies.
“One of the key things I identified is the need for mechanics who can handle electric vehicles and CNG conversions,” he noted. “When vehicles break down in my constituency, there should be trained technicians who can repair or convert them. That’s why I’m here to seek NADDC’s support in training and empowering my people.”
He Concluded by emphasizing that his federal constituency lies along one of Nigeria’s busiest transport corridors, which presents a huge opportunity for value chain development if the people are properly trained.
I strongly believe that, by the grace of God, this meeting marks the beginning of a transformational journey for Niger State.”
The meeting ended with a mutual commitment to foster development and ensure Niger State is not left behind in Nigeria’s evolving automotive landscape.