Editor
“We need to stimulate local demand and build capacity,” says the Minister.
THE Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, convened a strategic meeting on Wednesday with the leadership of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) to outline a progressive roadmap for Nigeria’s automotive industry.
The NADDC, driven by its vision to position Nigeria as a leading global hub for automotive manufacturing, plays a critical role in advancing the sector. It supports the establishment of automotive assembly plants, fosters component manufacturing, and ensures adherence to international standards. The council also develops policies and recommends incentives to protect and promote the industry.
At the meeting held in Abuja, NADDC provided a detailed briefing on its ongoing initiatives. These include efforts to boost local vehicle production, expand the electric vehicle ecosystem, and refine automotive policies to attract investments and spur innovation.
Senator Enoh praised the agency’s progress while urging more tangible results. He emphasized key areas for immediate focus, including stimulating demand for locally assembled vehicles and addressing the high costs of servicing and maintenance—a major concern for users. Ensuring affordable maintenance for locally assembled vehicles, he noted, is crucial for sustaining consumer confidence and driving demand.
The Minister reiterated his commitment to providing effective leadership and pledged the Ministry’s full support in tackling challenges and aligning the automotive sector with global standards.
“This engagement underscores our commitment to advancing Nigeria’s industrial agenda and fostering sustainable economic growth,” the Minister stated.
The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including the Special Adviser to the President on Industry, Trade, and Investment, Mr. John Ugochukwu Uwajumogu; the Director General of NADDC, Mr. Joseph Osanipin; directors and staff of NADDC; and officials from the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment.
This collaboration highlights the Ministry’s resolve to drive Nigeria’s automotive industry toward innovation and global competitiveness.
