The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and National Chairman of the Automotive Locomotive Engineers Institute (Auto EI) have embarked on collaboration towards advancing Nigeria’s automotive sector.
The move was proposed during a strategic meeting held recently between the NADDC Director Genera, Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, and Auto EI Chairman, Engr. Prof. Sylvester Aye.
Also at the meeting was a representative of the Nigerian Automobile, Locomotive and Early Sectors (NALES), who delivered a compelling address, focusing on industrial transformation and local empowerment.
In his remarks, the NALES speaker emphasized the pressing need for joint collaboration across research, technological development, and skills advancement, with a keen focus on cutting-edge areas such as electric mobility, alternative fuels, and compressed natural gas (CNG) conversion training. These areas are viewed as crucial pillars in transitioning Nigeria from a vehicle-importing nation to a self-sustaining vehicle-manufacturing hub
The NALES representative commended NADDC’s leadership under Mr. Osanipin for its outstanding efforts in promoting local content, attracting foreign direct investment, and forging international partnerships to strengthen Nigeria’s automotive landscape. He particularly highlighted NADDC’s engagement with Chinese automotive firms and the establishment of the Skills Support Center as commendable strides toward sustainability and technological inclusion.
Furthermore, NALES proposed the conferment of an Honorary Fellowship on Mr. Osanipin in recognition of his unwavering support and visionary leadership in developing Nigeria’s automotive sector.
“This symbolic gesture,” he said, “is intended to solidify the budding relationship between the two institutions and inspire greater synergy moving forward.”
The meeting concluded with expressions of mutual respect and optimism. Both parties acknowledged the importance of building a robust institutional partnership that will deliver lasting impact on Nigeria’s industrialization journey.
