Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, has urged the newly inaugurated Governing Board of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) to approach their duties with dedication, diligence, and a forward-thinking approach, without interfering in the day-to-day administration of the council.
Enoh, who gave the advice on Wednesday while inaugurating the 12-member board, chaired by Chief Emma Eneukwu, also charged them with the following responsibilities: “strategic planning, policy formulation, stakeholder engagement, infrastructure development, skills development, attracting investment, promoting local content and promoting CNG/electric vehicles.”
Enoh said, “I urge you to approach your responsibilities with diligence, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to the development of our nation. The government stands ready to support you in every way possible.”
He said the Nigerian automotive industry possesses immense potential, with a large domestic market, a skilled workforce, and a growing economy. However, he noted that realising this potential requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders.
The minister expressed confidence that with the board’s support, the NADDC would play a pivotal role in transforming the Nigerian automotive sector into a source of national pride and economic prosperity.
In his acceptance remarks, the Chairman of the NADDC Governing Board, Chief Emma Eneukwu, said their appointment was a call to national service at a critical time in the country’s economic transformation journey.
He said the focus of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is clear, which is to “rebuild the economy, create decent jobs, drive industrial growth, and deepen local content.”
Eneukwu, who is also the All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy National Chairman (South), said that the automotive sector under the mandate of the NADDC is strategically positioned to deliver the goals.
“Our task is to work with patriotic resolve and strategic foresight to reposition Nigeria as a major hub for automotive manufacturing, assembly, innovation, and technology in Africa.
“As Chairman of the Governing Board. I am fully aligned with the Renewed Hope vision to restore confidence, unlock opportunities, and deliver practical results to Nigerians.
“In collaboration with my colleagues on the board, the Director General, and industry stakeholders, and in line with NADDC functions which include developing and implementing a Natiorial Automotive Policy, recommending incentives and protective measures to support the industry’s growth, we shall ensure the full implementation and review of the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) in line with evolving global standards and local realities.
“Promote local manufacturing and assembly of vehicles to reduce dependency on imports and conserve foreign exchange; support the creation of value chains that will generate jobs, skills, and wealth across states and communities.
“Accelerate the adoption of CNG vehicles, electric and alternative fuel vehicles in support of sustainable development; and strengthen partnerships with investors, academia, and research institutions to drive innovation and industrial competitiveness.”
