In a bid to bridge Nigeria’s widening automotive skills gap, Suzuki by CFAO Mobility has trained a new set of women mechanics to address the shortage of skilled technicians capable of maintaining modern vehicles equipped with advanced technology.

The Suzuki by CFAO Empower Her Program, initiated by Aissatou Diouf, general manager of Suzuki by CFAO Mobility, was designed to train and certify young Nigerian women in modern automobile maintenance, diagnostics, and repair specifically tailored to Suzuki’s range of vehicles.

According to the company, the program addresses a critical need in Nigeria’s automotive sector, and by investing in comprehensive technical training, Suzuki by CFAO Mobility is building an aftersales ecosystem that ensures every Suzuki vehicle from the rugged Jimny to the efficient Dzire sedan, receives professional maintenance that enhances performance, safety, and longevity.

“Through this program, we’re not just building mechanics, we’re creating a network of certified professionals who understand the unique engineering and technology behind every Suzuki model.

“This directly translates to superior aftersales service, increased vehicle lifespan, and greater value for our customers. When you educate a woman, you educate a nation,” Diouf said.

The Suzuki by CFAO Empower Her Program is part of the company’s approach to addressing gaps in Nigeria’s automotive sector.

Beyond vehicle sales, Suzuki by CFAO Mobility is supporting initiatives to increase the availability of trained technicians, aiming to ensure that vehicle owners have access to skilled personnel familiar with their cars.

Participants received practical training and mentorship, learning to work with Suzuki’s engine management systems, follow preventive maintenance procedures for different models, and perform repairs on fuel-efficient powertrains.

The 2025 graduation saw a notable group of women complete the program. Breaking barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men, the graduates are now certified to carry out maintenance and repairs across Suzuki’s range of vehicles, from the Alto K-10 to models such as the Fronx, Jimny, and Grand Vitara SUVs.

Their stories inspire a generation of girls to dream beyond limits, to see technical education not just as a skill, but as a pathway to independence, confidence, and leadership.

“These young women are not just fixing cars; they’re fixing systems. They’re showing that the future of Nigeria’s automotive industry can be diverse, innovative, and inclusive,” Diouf added.

The graduation ceremony featured a panel session titled, ‘Woman Arise: Breaking Barriers, Building Nations,’ which explored how education and skills development unlock women’s potential to drive national progress.

The session brought together industry captains and politically savvy thought leaders who shared insights on women’s empowerment, economic inclusion, and the transformative power of technical education.

Industry leaders and panelists present were Folashade Ambrose-Medebem commissioner of commerce, cooperatives, trade & investment, Lagos State, Sylva Omlenyi, managing director, CFAO Yamaha,

Kafilat Adetola Ogbara, member representing Kosofe constituency at the House of Representatives,

Fola Akinrilola, director, MedEquip Nigeria Ltd,Racheal Iheanacho, acting head of human resources, CFAO Mobility Nigeria and Dayo Bankole-Hameed, founder and chief executive, Mirabol Integrated Services.