•Joseph Osanipin
The Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Joseph Osanipin, has emphasised the need to focus on the local production of car components, as the importation of spare parts has reached $19 million in just one year.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, Osanipin stressed that the trend of importing spare parts cannot continue and must be actively discouraged. He assured that the council is taking steps to ensure the continued manufacturing of spare parts in Nigeria, reports The Nation.
He highlighted that the government is partnering with local manufacturers to produce various types of car and motorcycle components, which he identified as the cornerstone of the automotive industry.
Osanipin explained: “The government will support more manufacturing companies to venture into spare parts production. It is crucial to assess our progress with component production, which is why we have agreed on partnerships.”
He also pointed out that many motorcycle plastic parts are already being produced locally, signaling progress in the country’s manufacturing capabilities.
While acknowledging that not all components can be produced immediately, Osanipin expressed confidence that Nigeria will eventually become a hub for car and motorcycle part production.
The DG noted that many small production companies lack the capital and resources for expansion. He urged the government to intervene and help these businesses grow.
He suggested that the Nnewi industrial parks could be an ideal platform to bring these small companies together, making it easier for them to access government support.
Osanipin further revealed that the government is working to revive tire manufacturing companies, a move that will increase the percentage of locally produced auto components.
He also announced that Nigeria has begun exporting auto parts to other African countries, solidifying its position as a leading auto parts producer in Africa.
