Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, has emphasized the government’s commitment to reigniting the nation’s automotive industry. This message comes amidst a meeting with key stakeholders, including the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM), and the Nigeria Automotive Manufacturers Association (NAMA).
Highlighting recent government initiatives aimed at reviving the auto sector, Dr. Uzoka-Anite expressed optimism about the industry’s future. The expanding participation of stakeholders signifies a positive response to these efforts.
She pointed to a dedicated committee tasked with implementing the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP). This committee is responsible for ensuring the policy’s strategic execution, benefiting automakers, consumers, and the overall economy.
Encouraging investment, the Minister stressed the alignment of the Auto Policy with President Muhammadu Buhari’s plan for national industrialization. “This is the time to invest and produce in Nigeria,” she declared. The government’s commitment is to fostering an environment conducive to industrial growth.
The NADDC Director-General, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, echoed the need for ongoing collaboration with stakeholders, including the AAAM. He acknowledged the progress made through the NAIDP, which has led to assembly plant establishments, job creation, and increased local content in vehicle production. However, Mr. Osanipin emphasized the urgency to further accelerate this development.
Representatives from the Nigerian Customs Service, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Automotive Local Contents Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (ALCMAN), and Motorcycle Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) were also present at the event. This extensive participation signifies a collective drive to push the Nigerian auto industry forward.