Nigeria’s automotive industry has immense potential, but it cannot thrive without collaboration, according to Oluseun Olawore, CEO of Olawore Motor Company (OMC Automobiles).
Speaking in a recent interview, Olawore emphasised the importance of unity among local manufacturers to overcome the challenges facing the sector. He said, “We cannot thrive in isolation; we must work together to build a sustainable automotive ecosystem.”
Despite being Africa’s largest automobile market with approximately 11.8 million vehicles on the road, Nigeria’s manufacturing sector produces less than 10% of these vehicles. This presents a significant opportunity for growth, but it requires local manufacturers to pool resources and share knowledge.
The National Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) aims to promote local manufacturing and reduce reliance on imported vehicles. Olawore believes that collaboration could help close the 90% gap in local production. “If we pool our resources and knowledge, we can create vehicles that are not only competitive but also affordable for the average Nigerian” he said. “This collaborative approach could potentially transform Nigeria into a hub for automotive excellence in Africa.”
Olawore’s vision for OMC goes beyond assembling cars. With over 20 years of experience in car repairs and maintenance, he transitioned into manufacturing in 2019. “The primary challenge is not just funding; it’s cultivating the technical know-how necessary for manufacturing,” he said. His company has developed four prototypes, including the Charlie 337, a high-performance luxury sports car that has garnered attention for its design and performance.
In addition to developing high-performance vehicles, Olawore is committed to fostering technical skill development within Nigeria. He plans to create training programs for aspiring engineers and mechanics to ensure a skilled workforce for the future of automotive manufacturing. “We need to empower our youth with the skills they need to innovate and excel in this field,” he said. His goal is to cultivate a culture of innovation and self-reliance within the Nigerian automotive sector.
As the demand for locally manufactured vehicles continues to rise with Nigeria’s growing economy, Olawore believes that collaboration among local manufacturers will be key to meeting these demands.
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