…Working with stakeholders to enhance local production
From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, has revealed that Nigeria loses approximately $19 million annually on imported motorcycle spare parts.
Mr. Osanipin made this disclosure while briefing journalists at the weekend about the achievements of his leadership over the past fourteen months. He emphasized that Nigeria should not continue to rely on the importation of vehicle spare parts but should instead focus on encouraging local manufacturing.
“Our investigation has shown that the value of motorcycle spare parts imported into the country annually is close to $19 million. This figure excludes tricycles and vehicles. If we can produce these parts locally, we will save a significant amount of foreign exchange and create opportunities for local manufacturers,” he stated.
During his tenure, Mr. Osanipin introduced a new blueprint to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s current agenda and the Council’s mandate. He explained that the NADDC is collaborating with international partners, including the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), to support local manufacturers in the automotive industry.
In addition, he mentioned ongoing efforts by the Council to revive tire and battery production to reduce the country’s dependency on imported vehicle parts while strengthening local production capabilities.
The NADDC boss further highlighted the Council’s focus on standardization, capacity building, and fostering more collaboration among key stakeholders, including manufacturers, Customs, and the Ministry of Finance. These efforts, he said, are designed to strengthen Nigeria’s automotive sector.
He also called on the media to continue partnering with the Council to promote and develop the industry.