Nigeria's Passenger Vehicle Imports Increase by 226.4% in 2023

Due to Nigeria's heavy reliance on imported vehicles, the value of passenger car imports in 2023 surged to ₦1.47 trillion, a staggering 224.67% increase from 2022, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

This dependency is exerting pressure on our foreign exchange and hindering job creation and economic growth within our country. We must aim for a future where Nigeria is not just a consumer but also a producer of high-quality automobiles.

Mr. Joseph Osannipin, Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), disclosed this last weekend in Lagos during his keynote address at the Nigeria Auto Summit. The event was organized by the Nigeria Auto Journalist Association (NAJA) in collaboration with NADDC.

He stressed the importance of Nigerians consuming locally produced goods. "Let us consume what we produce and produce what we consume, in line with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of Mr. President. The good news is that we are already making strides; Nigeria has several local assembly plants in operation, and the government is more committed than ever to seeing the industry thrive," he stated.

According to Osannipin, "The NADDC is one of the 16 parastatals under the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment. Our primary mandate is to regulate the automotive sector in Nigeria by developing programs for acquiring technology for vehicle and component production and recommending standards for the industry, among other responsibilities.

"He further explained that "The NADDC is dedicated to supporting the development of a vibrant domestic automotive industry. We are working on several initiatives to achieve this, including implementing the Nigerian Automotive Industrial Development Plan. This plan provides a roadmap for the industry's growth, outlining strategies and incentives for attracting investment, developing local content, and creating jobs. We are also encouraging skills development by working with various stakeholders to create training programs that equip Nigerians with the necessary skills to succeed in the automotive industry."

Additionally, the Council has developed standards for the safe conversion of vehicles from PMS/Diesel to CNG, requiring all conversion centers to register through their website to ensure public safety and the use of standard equipment.

Osannipin highlighted that the agency is also promoting research and development. "Innovation is key to our success. We are committed to supporting research and development initiatives that will lead to the creation of new technologies and solutions tailored for the Nigerian market. Collaboration is essential; the success of the Nigerian automotive industry depends on it. We are always ready to work with willing stakeholders and encourage individuals and corporate bodies to invest in the local production of vehicles, especially spare parts.

"He urged the media, particularly auto journalists, to shape public perception and promote Nigerian-made vehicles and parts. He also called on the public to always choose "Made-in-Nigeria" cars."Your continued patronage is invaluable. You are not just buying a vehicle; you are investing in the future of our nation," he said.

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