The Federal Government on Wednesday took a major step toward revitalising the nation’s automotive industry with the inauguration of the Governing Board of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) in Abuja.
Top of the agenda at the event were the Nigeria Automotive Industry Development Plan (2023–2033) and the recently launched Nigeria First Policy, both of which are central to the government’s strategy to boost local manufacturing and reduce import dependency.
Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, who presided over the inauguration, emphasized the urgent need to implement the Nigeria First Policy, urging the board to work toward ensuring that Nigerian-made vehicles become the standard in both public and private procurement.
The newly inaugurated board chairman, Chief Emma Eneukwu, echoed this stance, placing the NAIDP at the top of the board’s strategic priorities. He stressed the importance of aligning the council’s activities with the tenets of the Renewed Hope Agenda to strengthen the automotive value chain.
In his remarks, NADDC Director-General, Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, disclosed that local vehicle production had grown significantly—from around 4,000 units to nearly 12,000 units in 2024. He expressed optimism that with sustained momentum and policy consistency, Nigeria would soon begin vehicle exports.
“This is not just about increasing numbers, but building confidence in Nigeria’s capability to manufacture and eventually export vehicles,” Osanipin said.
Senator Enoh charged the newly appointed board members to serve as catalysts for transformation in the automotive sector, highlighting the pivotal role of the council in industrialisation, job creation, and technological development.
The inauguration is seen as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey to re-establish itself as a regional automotive hub, leveraging the NAIDP, the Nigeria First Policy, and wider economic reforms to drive industrial growth.
