The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), led by its Director-General, Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, on Thursday in Abuja paid a courtesy visit to the Comptroller-General, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
The engagement was aimed at deepening cooperation between both agencies towards the successful implementation of policies that would drive the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s automotive industry.
In his remarks, Osanipin expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General for the Service’s unwavering support in advancing the National Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP).
He emphasized that Customs plays a crucial role in the effective execution of the automotive policies, describing the relationship between both institutions as symbiotic.
Mr. Osanipin also highlighted three strategic areas of focus:
- Digital Integration for Industry Optimization – The Introduction of the Nigerian Automotive Repository Platform (NARP), designed to centralize the automotive database for registration and data collection. Its success requires integration with Customs’ B’Odogwu platform to ensure efficient and transparent processes.
- Standardization of Imported Vehicles – NADDC, in partnership with the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), is enforcing a requirement for a Certificate of Standard from exporting countries to curb the importation of unsafe and damaged vehicles.
- Reinstatement of Age Limits on Used Vehicles – The urgent need to reintroduce age limits on imported vehicles as a safeguard for consumers, the environment, and Nigeria’s local auto industry.
In his response, the Comptroller-General of Customs appreciated the visit and reiterated the Service’s commitment to supporting the growth of Nigeria’s automotive sector.
He emphasized that the sector is vital to the nation’s economic development and aligns with the Nigeria First Initiative of the Federal Government.
Mr. Adeniyi further assured that the Customs Service would prioritize the procurement of locally produced vehicles in 2025 as part of its contribution to strengthening Nigeria’s auto industry.
He also emphasized the importance of inclusive stakeholder engagement in policy formulation to ensure effective and sustainable implementation.
The meeting ended on a strong note of partnership, with both agencies pledging to deepen collaboration in the collective interest of advancing Nigeria’s automotive development.
