The House of Representative Committee on Industry, accompanied by top Management of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) extended its oversight visit on Thursday to Coscharis Motors Assembly Plant in Lagos.
The objective of the visit was to assess the growth of Nigeria automotive sector, identify key challenges, and pinpoint areas for improvement.
At the Coscharis Motors Assembly Plant, the Group Managing Director, Coscharis Group, Josiah Samuel said “This facility features a multi-model production line assembly plant. We’ve progressed from Semi-Knock-Down (SKD) to Complete Knock-Down (CKD) assembly, utilizing an automated cradle. Established in 2013 under Ford Motor Company’s guidance, we manufacture the Ford Ranger SUV and other brands”.
“Our dismantling capabilities are unmatched, with only one other company rivaling our level.
While some firms disassemble 20-50 components, our extent is unparalleled” he stated.
Standing in for the NADDC helmsman, the Director, Research, Design, and Development of the Council, Engr. Dr. Fidelis Achiv emphasized the need for Nigeria assembly plants to patronize local manufacturers producing high-quality components that meet international standard as a way to boost local content, instead of relying on international source.
“We encourage these plants to adopt the local content program. Unfortunately, low after-sales demand hampers production capacity. If demand were higher, production lines would likely operate at full capacity, necessitating market expansion efforts.
We’ve supported these companies and will continue to do so, but they must also take initiative to explore new markets with competitive interest rates” he revealed.
Honorable Dolapo Badru, Chairman, House Committee on Industry reiterated Committee’s commitment to fostering an environment that enables businesses like Coscharis Motors to thrive, adding that the members also recognized the potential of local assembly plants in reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported vehicles and promoting economic development.
“Our goal is to create a favorable business climate, enabling you to expand your operations and contribute to Nigeria’s industrial growth” Badru said.
The visit underscores Coscharis Motors’ contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria automotive industry and the need for continued innovation and investment in the interest of the economy.
