Nigeria spends over $1bn yearly on imported vehicle spare parts, says NADDC DG

Joseph Osanipin, the director-general (DG) of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), says Nigeria spends over $1 billion yearly importing spare parts.

Osanipin spoke on Monday, during a training session for engineers at the Midas NFX software automotive design skills boot camp, according to NAN.

He said the empowerment programme, organised by the council in Abuja, aims to equip engineers with the skills necessary for manufacturing vehicle components.

“The country spends over one billion dollars each year on imported spare parts,” The NADDC director-general said.

“This massive expenditure underscores the urgent need for local production capabilities and advanced design training to reduce dependency on foreign imports and stimulate economic growth.

“This boot camp focused [is] on Midas NFX software training aimed at empowering local engineers and designers with the skills necessary to create high-quality vehicle components.”

Osanipin said Midas NFX is a specialised tool that allows users to scan parts according to specific requirements and select the optimal materials needed for production, whether plastic or steel.

He said the council plans to train 100 people yearly, including participants from the private sector.

“With a target of training 100 individuals over the next year, the initiative aims to equip local assemblers and manufacturers with essential knowledge, bridging the gap between theory and practice,” he said.

“The only way we can bridge the gap is through knowledge. And through this programme, we hope to foster innovation within the industry.

“The programme will not only enhance local expertise but also pave the way for the development of locally produced spare parts, ultimately saving the country significant amounts of foreign currency.

“About 24 participants are set to be trained today, and future plans are already in motion to expand this training initiative.”

Osanipin said Nigeria aims to position itself competitively in the global market by focusing on advanced technologies and adherence to production specifications.

On his part, Fidelis Achiv, the director of the directorate of research, design, and development at NADDC, highlighted the initiative’s importance for adding value, particularly as Nigeria is already involved in vehicle assembly.

He praised the director-general for facilitating the training and urged participants to make the most of it and train other Nigerians to support the industry’s growth.

On May 14, the federal government announced plans to launch an auto-credit scheme to boost the local automobile industry.

Doris Uzoka-Anite, minister for industry, trade, and investment, represented by Osanipin, said the scheme is aimed at easing the acquisition of locally manufactured goods by Nigerians.