Abuja: The Amalgamated Union of Motor Mechanics and Technicians of Nigeria (AUOMMATION) has initiated a free training program for 100 artisans in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to convert vehicles from petrol to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). The union’s National President, Mr. Oseni Suleiman, revealed this development in Abuja while discussing the union’s operational guidelines aligned with National Policy Priorities.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Suleiman mentioned that the union plans to extend this initiative to Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo States. “This union was registered on Oct. 6, 2023. In November 2023, we planned to train 5,000 artisans on the conversion of petrol energy to CNG. Within 15 months, we have completed this training of 100 artisans free in FCT,” Suleiman stated.
He further highlighted the union’s ongoing efforts to secure support from various governmental bodies, including the Federal Government, FCT Minister, Industrial Training Funds (ITF), and National Automotive Design Development Council (NADDC). Despite appealing for assistance, Suleiman expressed regret over the lack of support received so far, urging government entities at all levels to back this initiative.
The union marked its achievements during its maiden National Executive Council (NEC)/ Special National Delegate Conference (SNDC) on Jan. 30. Suleiman recalled the union’s inauguration at the national level on Aug. 13, 2024, and noted the launch of the CNG Training Centre and the Abuja Chapter of AUOMMATION on Oct. 5, 2024.
Efforts are underway to expand the union’s presence beyond Abuja to other states including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Edo, Niger, Kano, Osun, Nasarawa, and Delta. Suleiman stressed the importance of establishing a permanent office for national operations, acquiring a vehicle for operations, and procuring necessary office supplies and resources for the union’s secretariat and executive offices.