The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has intensified its efforts to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported vehicle components, a practice that costs the country over $1 billion annually.
The NADDC Director-General Joseph Osanipin stated this on Monday during the Midas NFX Software Automotive Design Skills Boot Camp held in Abuja.
Oanipin who decried the fact that the country spends over one billion dollars each year on imported spare parts, emphasized the urgent need for local production capabilities.
“The country spends over one billion dollars annually on imported spare parts. This massive expenditure underscores the necessity of developing advanced design and manufacturing skills locally to stimulate economic growth and reduce reliance on imports,” he said.
The boot camp, organized by NADDC, focuses on training engineers and designers using Midas NFX software.
“The training is not limited to NADDC staff but is also open to private sector participants who may lack access to such advanced resources,” he said.
“The only way we can bridge this gap is through knowledge. By fostering innovation within the industry, we not only enhance local expertise but also pave the way for producing quality spare parts locally, ultimately saving foreign exchange,” he added.
Osanipin highlighted the untapped potential in Nigeria’s automotive sector, especially in the production of components like batteries, brake pads, and filters.
Meanwhile, Dr. Abdullawal Zubair, Managing Director of FAZSAL Nigeria Limited, while speaking at the training, commended the NADDC for providing access to cutting-edge tools like 3D scanners and printers.
“The equipment provided is among the best globally. Participants should leverage this opportunity to improve their skills, benefiting both their careers and the broader industry,” Zubair encouraged.
The training program is expected to lay the foundation for a more self-reliant and innovative Nigerian automotive industry, positioning the country for competitiveness on the global stage.