Nigeria aims to slash $1 bn import bill with auto spare parts production

Nigeria is set to launch local production of 10 essential vehicle spare parts, a move aimed at slashing the country’s $1 billion annual expenditure on imports and revitalizing its automotive sector. The initiative, led by the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), promises to bolster local industries while reducing dependency on foreign suppliers.

Speaking at the conclusion of a two-week training program in Abuja, Joseph Osanipin, NADDC’s Director General, said the council’s efforts would support the country’s estimated 11 million vehicles. Osanipin, represented by Fidelis Achiv, Director of Research Design and Development, highlighted plans to increase local assembly capacity from under 1% to 40%. “Producing these key components locally will transform the industry and significantly cut our import reliance,” Achiv stated.

The training program, focused on Midas NFX automotive design software, was organized in collaboration with South Korea’s Midas IT Co. and equipped 15 auto engineers with advanced skills. Participants were trained on using the software to optimize designs and develop innovative solutions for the local market.

Abdul-Lawal Zubair, Managing Director of FAZSAL Nigeria Limited, urged the engineers to leverage their new skills to foster innovation in Nigeria’s automotive sector. “This is a pivotal moment for our industry. The knowledge gained here should drive creative solutions and elevate local production,” Zubair said.

For Lukman, one of the participants, the training was a life-changing experience. “The Midas NFX software has opened my eyes to new possibilities. It’s a powerful tool for creating and improving designs,” he said, expressing optimism about applying his skills to advance Nigeria’s automotive industry.

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