The Federal Government has launched new National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs) as part of broader efforts to modernise Nigeria’s automotive industry, create jobs, and promote a greener economy.
The announcement was made by the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Enoh, during the public presentation of the NOS for the conversion, calibration, and maintenance of auto gas-powered vehicles in Abuja. The event also featured the unveiling of new CNG retrofitting guidelines by the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC).
According to Enoh, the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to energy transition, skills development, and industrial competitiveness. “Under President Bola Tinubu, we’re not just talking policy — we’re implementing real reforms. The automotive sector has the potential to drive job creation, industrialisation, and GDP growth,” he said.
He noted that the new guidelines would enhance safety in the auto gas market, attract investments, and equip Nigerian youths with practical, in-demand technical skills.
NADDC Director-General, Joseph Osanipin, explained that the standards were developed in partnership with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF). The NOS, he said, covers gas-powered, hybrid, and electric vehicles.
“The council has also developed a CNG retrofitting guide to ensure national safety and uniformity,” Osanipin said, adding that the initiative will unify training across technical institutions and support the development of relevant curricula in universities, polytechnics, and technical colleges.
He said the programme will boost job creation and enable Nigerian technicians to gain globally recognised certifications. “Technicians will now be trained and certified up to Level Five, opening new career opportunities at home and abroad.”
Osanipin also emphasised the environmental and economic benefits of shifting away from petrol and diesel. “We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes made with crude oil. The time to embrace natural gas is now,” he stated.
Speaking at the event, CEO of the Presidential CNG Initiative, Michael Oluwagbemi, highlighted the need for private sector investment in infrastructure to support widespread CNG adoption. He noted Dangote Group’s plan to establish 200 CNG stations and urged other players like BUA, NNPC, and A.Y. Shafa to contribute to the national drive.
“Skilled manpower is the backbone of infrastructure. Clear standards make skills development possible,” Oluwagbemi said.
The event drew participation from stakeholders across the automotive, energy, vocational training, and environmental sectors.
