The Executive Chairman of Innoson Group, manufacturers of Innoson vehicles, Mr. Innocent Chukwuma, has reaffirmed his long-standing commitment to domestic manufacturing and youth empowerment.
Speaking on the progress made by his company on his 20,000,per anum capacity CNG Vehicle plant,Chukwuma stated that Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) Company has grown into one of the largest employers of labour in Africa, with thousands of families sustained through its operations.
He disclosed that in 2026 alone, the company plans to employ about 2,000 additional workers following the establishment of a new factory dedicated to the production of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks and electric vehicles.
He explained that the CNG Vehicle Manufacturing Plant will be one of the biggest of its kind in the world, with an installed capacity of producing 3,000 CNG units each of 6 different types of vehicles per annum. (app 20,000 units)
According to him, the facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and is expected to be completed within the next few months.
He added that the factory, which is expected to commence operations soon, will be supported by a technical training scheme designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, offering employment opportunities upon completion or certification for work elsewhere.
He noted that the company supports thousands of families through its operations and plans to significantly expand its workforce in the coming year.
“In 2026 alone, we intend to employ about 2,000 additional workers following the establishment of this new factory,” he said, adding that the expansion aligns with his vision of industrial growth driven by Nigerian talent.
Beyond vehicle production, the plant will host a technical training program to equip young Nigerians with hands-on industrial skills. Participants will either be absorbed into the company’s workforce or certified to seek employment elsewhere in the manufacturing sector.
According to Chukwuma, the initiative aims to engage young people productively while addressing broader social challenges.
He argued that skills development and job creation remain critical to reducing insecurity and strengthening Nigeria’s industrial base.
As African governments increasingly promote gas-powered and electric transport as alternatives to petrol and diesel, Innoson’s expansion positions Nigeria as a potential hub for next-generation vehicle manufacturing on the continent, with implications for regional supply chains, employment, and industrial self-reliance.
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