Michael Oche
Nigeria is stepping up efforts to develop its electric vehicle industry as the Federal Government rolls out policies aimed at supporting local manufacturing, expanding charging infrastructure, and accelerating the adoption of cleaner transportation.
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) said the initiative is designed to position Nigeria as a regional hub for electric vehicle production while strengthening the country’s automotive value chain.
Director-General Joseph Osanipin said the government is prioritising the deployment of electric buses assembled locally as part of a broader strategy to stimulate domestic vehicle manufacturing.
According to him, the move will create opportunities for local assemblers, encourage technology transfer, and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported vehicles.
Charging infrastructure rollout underway
To support the transition to electric mobility, the government has also begun procuring charging infrastructure that will be installed in strategic locations across the country.
Industry stakeholders say the availability of charging stations is critical for encouraging wider adoption of electric vehicles, particularly for public transportation systems.
The initiative is expected to help Nigeria reduce carbon emissions while lowering fuel costs associated with conventional petrol-powered vehicles.
Automotive development park planned in Nnewi
As part of the strategy to deepen local manufacturing capacity, the council is developing the Nnewi Automotive Development Park in southeastern Nigeria.
The facility will provide shared infrastructure for automotive manufacturers and component producers, allowing companies to operate without having to individually build costly utilities and support systems.
Located in Nnewi in Anambra State, the park is expected to attract investors and strengthen Nigeria’s automotive supply chain.
Local components production drive
The council also plans to expand training programmes aimed at boosting the local production of automotive components such as batteries and tyres.
Officials say building domestic capacity for key vehicle parts will reduce import dependence while creating jobs across the manufacturing sector.
To support industry players financially, the council is working with the Bank of Industry to facilitate access to the National Automotive Development Fund for qualified manufacturers and investors.
Legislative reforms underway
In addition, the council plans to submit a bill to the National Assembly of Nigeria aimed at strengthening its regulatory and development role in the automotive sector.
Osanipin said the proposed reforms are intended to align Nigeria’s automotive policy framework with global best practices and encourage long-term investment.
He also urged Nigerians to patronise locally assembled vehicles, noting that increased local demand would play a crucial role in expanding the country’s automotive industry and supporting economic growth.
