The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), is paving the way for domestic production and assembly of electric vehicles (EVs). Joseph Osanipin, the Director-General and CEO of NADDC, is leading the initiative, which recently emphasised the importance of the projects. After attending the Nigeria-Morocco Business Forum, Osanipin discussed potential alliances and joint businesses that might transform the future of the Automotive Industry across the country. The NADDC is focused on enhancing domestic Manufacturing abilities, advancing technological skills, and decreasing dependence on foreign vehicles.
Furthermore, these actions are expected to create Economic Development at the national level while promoting sustainability. Osanipin’s visit to Morocco offered vital insights and established a foundation for partnerships that will help achieve these objectives. During the Nigeria-Morocco Business Week, Osanipin presented compelling Investment opportunities in the Nigerian automotive sector to Moroccan industry leaders. He emphasised key areas of potential investment, including local component manufacturing, electric vehicles, EV infrastructure, and gas-powered vehicles. The delegation’s visit underscored the importance of forging strategic partnerships to advance these areas and create a more robust automotive industry.
NADDC team visited multiple firms to explore partnership opportunities.
In line with this project, the NADDC team visited Morocco’s National Center for Homologation, a crucial regulatory authority within the nation’s automotive industry. Additionally, the delegation interacted with two prominent Moroccan companies to discuss partnership opportunities. Among these firms was E-move Vehicles Company, a leading manufacturer in the electric vehicle sector, focused on electric motorcycles, tricycles, batteries, and energy storage solutions. Osanipin highlights that E-move’s proficiency in battery manufacturing and its focus on developing cost-effective electric vehicles has positioned it as an attractive partner for potential manufacturing ventures in Nigeria.
He conveyed hope regarding this partnership, noting that manufacturing comparable electric vehicles would support the country’s energy transition objectives while generating employment opportunities. Furthermore, the group visited Univers Acier Steel, a firm that provides Steel materials to the automotive sector. This visit aligned with the council’s goal of identifying parts that could be produced in Nigeria and shipped to Morocco. The trip to Morocco was an insightful learning opportunity, as the NADDC team investigated the nation’s regulatory structures and testing methodologies. The group toured six testing facilities that serve a range of sectors, including Cetiev, a tech partner in the automotive field.
Quality assurance practices were also observed during the visit.
Within Cetiev, automotive components are subjected to thorough evaluations before obtaining certification from the National Center for Homologation. Osanipin noted that this organised method of evaluation and accreditation is a key factor in Morocco’s achievement in limiting the spread of substandard automotive components domestically. Moreover, the team visited CTPC, a facility that evaluated plastic materials. Plastics are extensively used in manufacturing cars, motorcycles, and tricycles, so this excursion emphasised the critical role of quality assurance and standardisation in production processes. Osanipin pointed out that the NADDC has been actively striving to utilise the knowledge acquired from these experiences upon their return.
Also, the organisation seeks to implement these optimal strategies to improve the regional automotive industry by building sustainable infrastructure, embracing high standards, and strengthening economic stability. Nonetheless, the journey offered a chance to investigate possible approaches and collaborations that might enhance regional capacities and facilitate knowledge sharing. Insights gained from Morocco’s automotive advancements and regulatory practices will be vital as they aim to build a more robust and competitive automotive sector. In addition, the NADDC was formed in May 2014 by consolidating the National Automotive Council and the Centre for Automotive Design and Development.
Related Article: Morocco in talks with FG for pipeline project
It functions under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment. Its primary objective is to create a conducive environment that promotes the manufacturing of domestically produced vehicles that meet global standards at competitive rates, leveraging local resources and expertise. Osanipin’s vision for the future includes a thriving local automotive sector that meets domestic demand and holds the potential for Export and greater regional influence. Their discussions with Moroccan firms mark the beginning of a potentially transformative period for the Nigerian automotive industry.