Kia Motors Nigeria recently participated in the Nigeria Automotive Industry Summit hosted by the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) in collaboration with the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA).
The summit with the theme: ‘Developing Nigeria’s Economy through the Nigerian Auto Industry,’ which aimed to chart a course for the future success of the sector, was held on Thursday, June 27, 2024 in Lagos.
A statement by Omolade Akinyode, Marketing Assistant Manager, Kia Nigeria, said that the summit emphasised the critical importance of reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported vehicles to foster job creation and economic growth.
Akinyode stated that Kia Motors Nigeria showcased its commitment to innovation and sustainability by presenting the Kia Rio CNG vehicle, alongside other locally assembled vehicles at the event.
This initiative, she said aligned with the Federal Government’s push for CNG-powered vehicles, demonstrating Kia’s leadership in advancing eco-friendly automotive solutions.
Joseph Osanipin, Director-General, NADDC, highlighted the immense potential and challenges of the industry and urged a shift towards local production.
“Aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda,’ we are already making strides. Nigeria has a number of local assembly plants in operation, and the government is more than ever committed to seeing the industry thrive,” he stated.
Osanipin, the statement said underscored NADDC’s commitment to developing a vibrant domestic automotive industry through several initiatives, including the implementation of the Nigerian Automotive Industrial Development Plan.
This plan he emphasised, provided a comprehensive roadmap for the industry’s growth, outlining strategies and incentives for attracting investment, developing local content, and creating jobs.
He maintained that collaboration with stakeholders was essential for progress, and reiterated that the NADDC was dedicated to working closely with all involved parties.
He said the inauguration of the Implementation Committee of the 2023 National Automotive Industry Development Plan and the adoption of locally-assembled Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered vehicles by the Federal Government, underscored the government’s dedication to supporting the Development of the sector.
“Nigeria has the potential to become a vehicle manufacturing center for the West and Central African region. Let us use this summit as a springboard to propel the Nigerian automotive industry towards a brighter future,” Osanipin added.
In his comment, Dr. Doris Uzoka, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, represented by Mrs. Olumuyiwa Ajayi-Ade, emphasised the automotive sector’s crucial role in economic development, job creation, and technological innovation.
She reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for the automotive sector to thrive, highlighting several policies and initiatives aimed at supporting the industry.
“With the right policies, investments, and collaborative efforts, we can transform this sector into a significant driver of economic growth and development,” she said.
Kia Motors the statement said remained committed to driving innovation and sustainability in the Nigerian automotive industry, working hand in hand with stakeholders to create a brighter future for all.