Kogi youth CNG training begins across 21 LGAs with 2,310 beneficiaries as the state partners with Sufpay to promote cleaner energy and reduce unemployment

The Kogi State Government has commenced the Kogi youth CNG training programme, targeting 2,310 young people across its 21 Local Government Areas.

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The initiative is part of the state’s strategy to empower youths through skills in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion technology and diversify the economy.

Speaking in Lokoja on Thursday, the State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, said the training aligns with Nigeria’s growing shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy alternatives.

“In a major push to fulfil its campaign promise of youth empowerment and economic diversification, the Kogi State Government has commenced the training of 2,310 young people across the 21 Local Government Areas of the state in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion technology,” Fanwo said.

The project is being executed in partnership with Sufpay Ltd, a firm known for its expertise in renewable energy solutions and vocational training.

Fanwo praised the company’s role in bringing the state government’s vision to life.

We are building development around our youth because they are the greatest asset of our state.

“This is about creating a new generation of skilled professionals who can compete and contribute meaningfully in the evolving energy sector. CNG is the future, and we are proud to be preparing our youths for it,” he added.

The Kogi youth CNG training initiative is also a non-kinetic approach to addressing insecurity by productively engaging the state’s young population in technical skills development.

According to Fanwo, “Our Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, made a clear commitment to youth empowerment, and this programme is a clear demonstration of that commitment. We are building development around our youth because they are the greatest asset of our state.”

The training centres are strategically located in Lokoja, Okene, Idah, and Kabba to enable decentralised learning and reduce barriers to participation.

Participants will be exposed to hands-on training in CNG conversion techniques, equipping them with market-relevant skills to support the country’s alternative fuel transition.

Fanwo also noted that the programme is aligned with national objectives to reduce dependency on petrol, support energy reform, and address unemployment through technical capacity building.

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As Nigeria pushes forward with its clean energy goals, Kogi State is positioning itself as a front-runner in youth-focused energy reform, with the Kogi youth CNG training laying the foundation for sustainable growth and a skilled green workforce.