The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) launched its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Empowerment and Awareness Summit on March 19, 2025, in Owerri, Imo State. This initiative to promote CNG as a sustainable, cost-effective fuel alternative concluded a six-day technician training workshop today, March 22, 2025, with certificates of participation set to be awarded later today after participants completed practical and theory exams.

NADDC Director-General Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin opened the summit on March 19, thanking Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma and his administration for their support. He highlighted the event’s goal: educating residents, particularly youth, about adopting CNG-powered vehicles. “CNG is cheaper, cleaner, and more environmentally friendly, making it the future of fuel for Nigerian vehicles,” Osanipin said, emphasizing its advantages over petrol and the safety of certified conversion kits.

The summit addressed vehicle conversion processes, roles of individuals and government, and the demand for skilled technicians. Its core was a six-day training program, running from March 17 to March 22, 2025, for Over 60 technicians mastering CNG conversions through practical and theoretical lessons. Today, March 22, participants completed their exams, with certificates to be awarded later in the day to recognize their expertise. Osanipin noted, “The fortified CNG cylinders are safer than traditional fuel tanks,” underscoring the need for professional standards.

Professor Anoka Njan, representing the Honorable Minister for Industry, praised NADDC’s youth-focused efforts, backed by the Ministry to revitalize the auto industry.

Dr. Emeka Madela, Imo State’s Commissioner for Youth Development and Talent, spoke for Governor Uzodinma, calling CNG a “safer, cleaner, and cheaper” solution to transportation challenges. He detailed plans to partner with NADDC and industry stakeholders to establish CNG conversion workshops and refilling stations statewide.

This summit and workshop highlight NADDC’s drive to transform Nigeria’s automotive sector, merging sustainability with workforce development.

Umuaka News24 Reports

The Imo State Police Command has arrested Barrister Donald Mbamah, a 64-year-old man, in connection with the shooting of a 16-year-old student, Paul Victor, on March 17, 2025.

A press statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Henry Okoye, stated that the incident occurred at approximately 12:34 PM at Mbamah’s residence located at Area N, World Bank, New Owerri.

The statement hinted that the victim, a student of Urban Development Secondary School, was allegedly shot in the buttocks under circumstances that are still under investigation.

Okoye further informed that police operatives from the New Owerri Division, led by the DPO, swiftly responded to a distress call from a concerned neighbor who heard the gunshot.

“They arrived at the scene, apprehended the suspect, and rushed the victim, Paul Victor, to General Hospital, Umuguma, for treatment. Despite efforts to save him, the victim was confirmed dead on March 20, 2025,” the PPRO revealed.

The Command’s spokesperson further hinted that following the incident, Barrister Mbamah was transferred to the State Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for questioning.

He stated that a thorough investigation is ongoing, and the police are working to recover the alleged firearm used in the shooting.

The State Police Command also used the opportunity to extend its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and assured the public that justice will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.

Okoye added that legal actions will be taken to arraign the suspect in court once investigations are completed and sufficient evidence is gathered.

The Command also called on the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and allow the police and relevant authorities to handle the matter through legal means.

Fashion entrepreneur and model Temi Otedola is basking in the joy of her 29th birthday, thanks to a romantic surprise from her husband, Mr Eazi. The daughter of billionaire Femi Otedola marked her special day on March 20, sharing a series of stunning photos on Instagram.

Temi’s birthday post featured her radiant in a beautiful blue Grecian-style dress, paired with bold gold accessories. She also shared a photo of a breathtaking bouquet of red roses, which she received on her big day. In her caption, Temi revealed her age and shared her aspirations for the rest of the year.

In a heartwarming turn of events, Mr Eazi orchestrated a surprise party for Temi, as revealed in her Instagram stories. Under the guise of a breakfast outing, Mr Eazi brought Temi to a restaurant, where she was astonished to find three of her friends, who had flown in from abroad, wearing customized black tops with her name emblazoned in blue. Overcome with emotion, Temi was overjoyed to reunite with her friends, thanks to Mr Eazi’s thoughtful gesture.

Photo source: Instagram