Reps, NADDC seek legislative reforms for auto industry

Nigeria's automotive industry is poised for potential growth as the House of Representatives Committee on Industry and the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) advocate for significant legislative reforms. These calls emerged during a four-day capacity-building retreat in Asaba, Delta State, focused on the industry's future.

“

The lawmakers described the automotive industry as a critical component of the Nigerian economy, emphasising the need for appropriate policies and legislation to unlock its full potential.

The lawmakers emphasized the automotive sector's critical role in Nigeria's economy, highlighting the necessity of robust policies and legislation to unlock its full potential. Sa’ad Taura, representing the Committee on Industry, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the sector's development, noting that a stronger industry would substantially contribute to economic growth and provide practical insights into industry challenges and opportunities.

NADDC Director-General Oluwemimo Osanipin stressed that enhanced legislative backing is crucial for fostering a sustainable development environment. He described the automotive industry as a strategic sector capable of driving industrialization, creating jobs, facilitating technology transfer, and boosting economic development. Osanipin pointed to the Council's progress in expanding local vehicle assembly, promoting cleaner energy options like electric vehicles and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and improving technical training infrastructure.

“

The automotive industry is a strategic sector capable of driving industrialisation, creating employment, facilitating technology transfer and contributing to Nigeria’s economic development.

However, Osanipin cautioned that sustaining and expanding these gains requires legislative interventions that align with global automotive industry trends. He specifically called for an updated legal framework to empower the NADDC in its mandate, support local manufacturers, attract investment, and increase the patronage of vehicles assembled and manufactured within Nigeria. The retreat also aimed to identify regulatory gaps and develop measures to improve the sector's efficiency and competitiveness.

“

Sustaining and expanding those gains would require legislative interventions that reflect emerging trends in the global automotive industry.