The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has described partnership between National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and 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 fast-growing clean energy and automotive sector.

Speaking at signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja, Minister noted that initiative aligns with federal government’s commitment to job creation, clean energy transition, technical innovation, and youth empowerment.

“This collaboration goes beyond signing of documents. It is about creating jobs, building skills, and preparing Nigerian youths for emerging opportunities within evolving economy,” Comrade Olawande stated.

In a press statement by the director of information and public relations of the ministry Omolara Esan, the minister  further emphasized that as government intensifies promotion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fuel, demand for skilled manpower in sector continues to rise.

“Nigerian youths must not be left behind in harnessing vast opportunities within clean energy and automotive industries,” he added.

According to Minister, corps members under 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 NYSC, NADDC, and Pi-CNG for commitment to expanding technical and vocational opportunities for young Nigerians across country.

In his welcome address, Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, represented by Director, Planning, Research & Statistics (PRS), Mr. Anthony Chukwuka, described initiative as timely intervention that strengthens institutional collaboration and enhances effective policy implementation for youth empowerment in emerging sectors.

Also speaking, Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, reaffirmed Corps commitment to expanding SAED programme to provide corps members with hands-on technical exposure that enhances employability and entrepreneurial capacity.

On his part, Director-General of NADDC, Otunba Joseph Osanipin, noted that collaboration will accelerate local automotive innovation and build skilled workforce required for Nigeria’s transition to clean energy mobility.

Also, Chairman of Pi-CNG and EV, Mr. Ismaeel Ahmed, represented by Special Assistant, Mr. Omo Imoukhuede, highlighted that partnership marks significant step toward deepening CNG adoption and electric vehicle integration, while creating sustainable green jobs for Nigerian youths.

Special Assistant to President on Youth Initiatives (Monitoring & Delivery), Dr. Titilope Gbadamosi, reaffirmed Presidency commitment to seamless implementation, effective monitoring, and measurable impact of youth-focused programmes under Renewed Hope Agenda.