The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has described the partnership between the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (Pi-CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EV) as a strategic step toward equipping Nigerian youths with practical, employable, and entrepreneurial skills in the fast-growing clean energy and automotive sector.
MoU Signing in Abuja
Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja, the Minister noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government's commitment to job creation, clean energy transition, technical innovation, and youth empowerment. He emphasized that as the government intensifies the promotion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fuel, the demand for skilled manpower in the sector continues to rise.
Comrade Olawande said: “This collaboration goes beyond signing documents. It is about creating jobs, building skills, and preparing Nigerian youths for emerging opportunities within an evolving economy. Nigerian youths must not be left behind in harnessing the vast opportunities within the clean energy and automotive industries.”
Hands-on Training for Corps Members
According to the Minister, corps members under the NYSC Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) Programme will receive hands-on training in CNG conversion and maintenance, equipping them with technical competencies that promote employment, entrepreneurship, and financial independence. Comrade Olawande commended the NYSC, NADDC, and Pi-CNG for their commitment to expanding technical and vocational opportunities for young Nigerians across the country.
Permanent Secretary’s Remarks
In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, represented by the Director of Planning, Research & Statistics (PRS), Mr. Anthony Chukwuka, described the initiative as a timely intervention that strengthens institutional collaboration and enhances effective policy implementation for youth empowerment in emerging sectors.
NYSC DG’s Commitment
In his remarks, the Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, reaffirmed the Corps' commitment to expanding the SAED programme to provide corps members with hands-on technical exposure that enhances employability and entrepreneurial capacity.
NADDC DG’s Perspective
The Director-General of NADDC, Otunba Joseph Osanipin, noted that the collaboration will accelerate local automotive innovation and build the skilled workforce required for Nigeria’s transition to clean energy mobility.
Pi-CNG Chairman’s Statement
The Chairman of Pi-CNG and EV, Mr. Ismaeel Ahmed, represented by Special Assistant, Mr. Omo Imoukhuede, highlighted that the partnership marks a significant step toward deepening CNG adoption and electric vehicle integration, while creating sustainable green jobs for Nigerian youths.
Presidential Support
Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiatives (Monitoring & Delivery), Dr. Titilope Gbadamosi, reaffirmed the Presidency's commitment to seamless implementation, effective monitoring, and measurable impact of youth-focused programmes under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
