The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) on 7th August, 2025, welcomed Hon. (Dr)Joshua Audu Gana, Member representing Lavun/Mokwa/Edati Federal Constituency in Niger State, on a courtesy visit aimed at fostering collaboration and development in Nigeria’s automotive sector, particularly in areas of training and alternative fuel adoption.
Welcoming the Honorable Member, the Director-General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, provided an overview of the Council’s role as the Federal Government agency responsible for regulating the automotive industry in Nigeria. He explained that the Council formulates policies, develops initiatives, and promotes products that contribute to the growth of the automotive sector.
“We license and regulate auto assemblers across the country,” the DG noted. “NADDC has introduced several programs and policies aimed at promoting the adoption of new technologies in the sector. One of our key focus areas is capacity building, and we work with technicians, technologists, academics, and other stakeholders who play essential roles in the automotive ecosystem. The industry is vast, and it requires the involvement of many.”
Mr. Osanipin highlighted the Council’s efforts in curriculum development for universities, polytechnics, and technical institutions focusing on training in mechatronics, heavy-duty mechanics, and general automotive engineering.
“Our aim is to build the capacity first,” he said. “You need trained manpower before meaningful investment can follow. That’s why we’ve been deliberate about skilling up the workforce ahead of time.”
He further stated that the Council is actively aligned with the Federal Government’s Energy Transition Policy, which emphasizes Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs)with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to follow in the nearest future.
“In line with this, the Council launched the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for the conversion, calibration, and maintenance of CNG vehicles,” he said. “These standards, structured under the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF), provide a comprehensive guide for both formal and informal skills training with four distinct certification levels.”
In his response, Hon. Dr. Joshua Audu Gana extended his appreciation to the NADDC Director-General for the warm reception and commended the Council’s efforts in advancing Nigeria’s automotive future.
“I am here today on this courtesy call to seek collaboration and partnership,” Hon. Joshua said. “Our visit aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We may come from different political backgrounds, but we are united in governance, and our goal is to deliver development to the people of Nigeria.”
He emphasized the need for Niger State, especially his constituency, to be included in key development initiatives around CNG and electric mobility. “Under the forward-thinking leadership of our Governor, Niger State is aggressively pursuing development, and we cannot afford to be left behind in the energy transition movement,” he said.
Hon. Joshua revealed that he had personally conducted an assessment across his federal constituency and discovered significant skills gaps, especially in modern automotive technologies.
“One of the key things I identified is the need for mechanics who can handle electric vehicles and CNG conversions,” he noted. “When vehicles break down in my constituency, there should be trained technicians who can repair or convert them. That’s why I’m here to seek NADDC’s support in training and empowering my people.”
He Concluded by emphasizing that his federal constituency lies along one of Nigeria’s busiest transport corridors, which presents a huge opportunity for value chain development if the people are properly trained.
I strongly believe that, by the grace of God, this meeting marks the beginning of a transformational journey for Niger State.”
The meeting ended with a mutual commitment to foster development and ensure Niger State is not left behind in Nigeria’s evolving automotive landscape.
