NADDC urges investors to drive Nigeria’s automotive transition

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has urged private investors to contribute to Nigeria's automotive transition towards cleaner transportation. In a media workshop in Abuja, NADDC Director General Mr Joseph Osanipin highlighted the need for greater private-sector investment in compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric vehicle infrastructure.

Osanipin emphasized the rapid expansion of the automotive industry and the importance of sustained media coverage to inform Nigerians about developments in the sector.

The Council has made significant progress in developing Nigeria's automotive industry, with about 40 assembly plants now operational. However, much of this work remains unknown to the public, according to the Council's Director of Media, Mrs Susan Taiwo. She urged journalists to help amplify these developments and provide Nigerians with accurate information about ongoing initiatives.

NADDC is actively supporting the transition towards cleaner mobility, particularly through CNG and electric vehicles. The Council has initiated training programs for technicians across the country on CNG vehicle conversion and installation, as well as licensing commercial conversion centers. Additionally, NADDC has conducted pilot electric vehicle projects in some universities, including the installation of charging stations.

However, Taiwo stressed that private investors need to take the initiative further and establish widespread charging infrastructure nationwide to make electric vehicles practical for long-distance travel in Nigeria.