The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), in collaboration with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), has officially launched the Vehicle Conformity Assessment Programme (VehCAP) in Abuja.

The initiative is designed to enhance vehicle safety, environmental compliance and the overall quality of vehicles entering into Nigeria.

VehCAP addresses growing concerns around the importation of substandard used vehicles lacking proper verification of safety, emissions, structural integrity and lifecycle history, issues that contribute to road accidents, environmental risks and market imbalance.

Delivering the keynote address at the launch, Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, described the programme as a strong example of institutional collaboration and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to industrialisation, consumer protection, and regulatory efficiency.

He noted that VehCAP is embedded within Nigeria’s broader economic framework, integrating policies around importation, foreign exchange and vehicle renewal systems.

He further emphasised that all vehicles and automotive products entering Nigeria must now obtain Shipment Certification under VehCAP before customs clearance and market entry.

The Director-General of NADDC, Joseph Osanipin, said that the programme introduces a “verify before entry” system, ensuring vehicles are inspected and certified prior to shipment.

Under the arrangement, Osanipin said NADDC would provide technical oversight, including vehicle classification and alignment with national automotive policies to support both regulation and industry growth.

Similarly, the Director-General, SON, Ifeanyi Okeke, emphasised the importance of standards-driven initiatives in strengthening Nigeria’s industrial ecosystem, aligning VehCAP with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Tinubu, saying that it focuses on economic revitalisation and consumer protection.

Key stakeholders, including Chairman, Senate Committee on Industry, Francis Fadahunsi and the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Isokpunwu Osaruwanwem, also expressed strong legislative and institutional support for the initiative.

VehCAP is expected to improve road safety, enhance environmental sustainability, protect consumers and restore market discipline by restricting substandard imports.

Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have also been urged to align procurement processes with the programme.

Overall, VehCAP marks a significant milestone in inter-agency collaboration, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to a safer, more structured and globally competitive automotive sector.