By Gloria Osemudiamhen
The Edo State Government under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, in partnership with the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and the Lady Mechanic Initiative (LMI) has empowered 50 women through training on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Conversion, to foster women empowerment and economic growth in the State.
At the Graduation ceremony themed, “CNG Conversion: A New Horizon for Women in the Automotive Industry,” which held at the New Festival Hall of the Government House in Benin City, Sen. Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s dedication to advancing women’s empowerment in the State.
Sen. Okpebholo, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, stated, “I just want to say that as a State, we recognize the need to empower women. We believe empowering women is not an issue of social justice or equality but is something that makes smart economic because the more women you empower the more you ensure economic growth.
“Studies have been done that says that when women are given equal opportunities in the work place, there will be economic growth, there will be an increase in GDP. Some figures have put it to a growth of about $7 trillion if women are given enough opportunity that equals to that of men. So, in Edo State we are reflecting this vision and this trend of empowering women.”
In her remarks, the Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, while emphasizing the significance of empowering women as catalysts for change and pioneers of innovation in Nigeria’s industrial transformation, said, “This programme is not about CNG conversion or technical skills; it is about rewriting the script of opportunity. It is about embedding women at the heart of our national industrial and clean energy transition not as passive beneficiaries, but as drivers of change, leaders of innovation and custodians of transformation.”
The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, advocated women’s empowerment and highlighted its pivotal role as a catalyst for national development and progress. According to her, “The importance of empowerment cannot be overstated. When we empower women, we empower families, we empower communities and we empower the entire nation. Educated and economically independent women become strong pillars for our society; driving economic growth, promoting social justice, and raising healthier families.
“As I always say, when you empower women, you are actually giving them a voice and strength. These initiatives align perfectly with our administration’s commitment to promoting cleaner and more affordable energy solutions. With the removal of fuel subsidies, the need for alternative energy sources has become more pressing than ever.”
Mrs. Anani emphasized the importance of empowering women in the Mechanic Sector, a field traditionally dominated by men, saying, “we should encourage our girls in STEM. It’s very important. Women are taking over the industry. By empowering women with skills in CNG conversion, we are not only enhancing their economic prospects, but also contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. CNG offers a valuable solution. I urge all graduates today to take full advantage and apply their newfound skills to creating meaningful impact in their communities.”
The Director General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, noted that Edo State is at the forefront of CNG adoption and boasts a significant number of female mechanics. He highlighted NADDC’s initiatives to empower women through mechatronics training and promote CNG usage in collaboration with the State Government. Additionally, he revealed plans to establish an automotive training centre and construction of an electric vehicle charging station at the University of Benin, aimed at fostering industrial growth and innovation in the State.
The President of the LMI and Nigeria’s First Female Mechanic, Dr. Sandra Aguebor expressed gratitude to the State Government and stakeholders for their support, pledging to continue to empower women in the field. The ceremony culminated in the presentation of certificates and starter packs to the graduating female mechanics, as well as gifts to some dignitaries, including Mrs. Anani.
