The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) is set to work closely with the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) on upcoming initiatives, including the proposed auto expo, aimed at promoting a cleaner, greener future for Nigeria’s automotive sector.

The initiative dominated discussions when NADDC hosted a courtesy visit from the Executive Director of the National Policy Advocacy Center, Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Chidibebere Onwumere, and his delegation.

The meeting, held at the NADDC headquarters, aimed to explore areas of collaboration to drive growth in the Nigerian automotive sector and bolster the nation’s economy through strategic automotive investments.

Onwumere proposed a joint initiative for an Auto Expo or conference scheduled to take place in Abuja in 2025.

The event, he suggested, would showcase innovations in the automotive sector, particularly in CNG and EV technologies.

“Carbon emissions are a global challenge, and we need to adopt new technologies to address these issues,” he emphasised.

In his welcome address, the Director General of NADDC, Joseph Osanipin, expressed his appreciation to the ACCI delegation for their interest in collaborating with the Council.

He stressed the importance of a strong partnership between the public and private sectors to advance the automotive industry in Nigeria.

“The opportunity to engage with our partners is essential, as collaboration is key to fostering innovation and driving growth,” Osanipin stated.

One of the key issues discussed was the reduction of carbon emissions from the transportation sector.

“Currently, vehicles contribute about 20 per cent of carbon emissions in Nigeria,” Osanipin noted, pointing to NADDC’s efforts to promote cleaner alternatives, such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

He outlined the National Occupational Standard for CNG and Electric Vehicles, a certification program developed in partnership with several Nigerian universities and agencies.

NADDC’s focus is also on the production of batteries for electric tricycles, vehicles, and infrastructure.

He called on business investors and academic institutions to explore opportunities in the EV sector.

Onwumere, during his address, commended NADDC for its significant role in developing the Nigerian automotive industry.

He reinforced the need for public-private partnerships in developing the economy.
“The partnership between the private and public sectors is crucial for the nation’s success,” Onwumere said.

The visit ended with a tour of the EV charging station at NADDC’s headquarters.