Cross River State Government has announced plans to train youths across the state in electric vehicle (EV) maintenance, repairs, and manufacturing as part of efforts to prepare young people for emerging opportunities in the renewable energy and green transportation sector.
The Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Local Content, Ambassador Awatt Caleb, disclosed that the initiative, tagged the “Local Content VOSEP Initiative,” will provide free technical training for 100 youths selected from the 18 Local Government Areas of the state.
According to Ambassador Awatt, the programme aligns with the People First agenda of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu and is designed to equip Cross River youths with modern automotive and engineering skills relevant to the future of transportation.
He explained that the growing presence of electric vehicles in Nigeria makes it necessary for Cross River State to begin developing local manpower capable of handling the maintenance and servicing of electric buses, cars, and tricycles popularly known as Keke Napep.
“One of the major challenges in the coming years will be the availability of skilled technicians who can service electric vehicles when faults occur. Through this programme, Cross River youths will be trained to fill that gap and position themselves for future opportunities,” he stated.
Awatt further revealed that the training programme, scheduled to commence in June, will mainly target engineering students and technically inclined youths of Cross River origin.
He noted that the state government is partnering with Japanese auto repair engineers, the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing to ensure participants receive world-class practical training in electric and hybrid vehicle technology.
According to him, the programme will focus on safe handling of high-voltage systems, electric vehicle diagnostics, repairs, maintenance, and manufacturing processes.
“Today, if you observe vehicles within Calabar metropolis, you will notice the increasing presence of electric vehicles. Like every other automobile, they require proper servicing and maintenance. The question is who will handle these repairs when the demand increases? This initiative is preparing our youths ahead of time,” he added.
The Special Adviser emphasized that the initiative will not only create employment opportunities for youths but also establish industry standards for electric vehicle maintenance within the state.
Beneficiaries of the programme have reportedly expressed appreciation to Governor Bassey Otu for introducing innovative skill acquisition opportunities capable of empowering young people and promoting sustainable economic growth in Cross River State.
The initiative is also expected to support the state’s long-term vision of embracing renewable energy, green transportation, and local content development.
By Archibong Emmanuel
Senior Reporter
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