CNG vehicles safe, says NADDC, buys converted vehicles for official use

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has alayed the fears of Nigerians about the safety of vehicles converted to run on compressed natural gas (CNG), an energy source found to be far cheaper than petrol or diesel.
The Federal Government’s agency has converted some of its official cars to run on the CNG, just as it bought fully built CNG vehicles to add to its fleet.
Director General of the NADDC, Oluwemimo Osanipin, disclosed this in Lagos at a training workshop organised by the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association under the theme ‘CNG/LPG/EV initiative: Challenges, Sustainability, Opportunities, Alternatives to Fossil Fuels in Nigeria’.
He spoke against a recent explosion of a CNG-powered vehicle at a NIPCO filling station in Benin, Edo State, which left three people severely injured. The explosion was traced to a cylinder fabricated by a welder without proper approval.
The NADDC DG, who was represented at the event by Ikechukwu Okoha, an assistant director, said, “To further demonstrate the safety of gas-powered vehicles, Council has converted some of its vehicles to use CNG.
“Some locally assembled gas-powered vehicles have also been procured by the Council.
“Council is engaging world-class OEMs to ensure that we get the best conversion solutions introduced into the country.”
According to him, the agency has a compelling role in the implementation of the CNG penetration programme.
He noted that the emergence of the CNG as an alternative to petrol was aimed at addressing energy-security and environmental concerns occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal and global warming issue respectively.
“The use of CNG and electric vehicles is one of the sure ways of reducing the emissions from petrol and diesel,” he added.
The DG said, “In collaboration with experts in conversion technology, Council (has) developed the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for conversion, calibration and maintenance of autogas-powered vehicles (CNG/LPG/LNG).
“The NOS has been validated by industry practitioners and approved by the regulatory authority, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
“The NOS would be used to train auto technicians on the conversion, repair and maintenance of gas-powered vehicles.”
He also spoke about the training of local manpower and local manufacturing of conversion kits as well as creating a CNG conversion portal for the registration, accreditation and licensing of CNG conversion workshops across Nigeria among other tasks being championed by the agency.
He said the NADDC recently carried out a stakeholders’ forum on accreditation of CNG conversion workshops in Nigeria; coordinated a national conference on harnessing youth potential and career prospects within the Nigerian Automotive Sector.
“We coordinated the training on conversion of petrol vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG) powered vehicles conducted by Lanre Shittu Motors in collaboration with NADDC.
“Forty-five technicians drawn from across the LGAs in Ekiti State participated in the training and they were empowered with modern tools/equipment at the end of the programme.”
He also disclosed that the agency coordinated the processes of accrediting and licensing CNG conversion workshops across the country and 30 workshops licensed for CNG conversion.
“To ensure skills development and international best practices in the automotive sector of the country, the Council conceived the establishment of Automotive Training Centres (ATCs) across the six geo-political zones aimed at redefining the nation’s auto industry, job provision and improvement in skills among technicians.
“This will in turn ensure prompt and efficient repair and maintenance of vehicles, while ensuring the safety of the mechanics, the vehicles and environment.
“A total of twenty-one (centres) are being built by the Council. Many of the projects have been completed and are currently being equipped with state-of- the-art equipment by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The ATCs will also serve as CNG conversion centres when operational.”

2024 Lagos Trade Fair: Carloha offers Chery full range, eco-friendly solutions, discount, test drive 

Visitors to the 2024 edition of the Lagos International Trade Fair holding at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) from November 1 to November 10, 2024 are in for a big treat at the Carloha pavillion.
Carloha is the authorized assembler and franchise holder of Chery vehicles in Nigeria.
The auto firm says it will make this year’s event a fair to remember with its loaded package on offer at the TBS venue such as interactive display of top-tier vehicles,
test drive, eco-friendly solutions, and exclusive discount on Chery Tiggo 2.
It stated, “Chery, known for its dynamic innovation, engineering prowess, and modern designs, aims to bring its latest models to the forefront of Nigeria’s automotive market.
“Chery’s presence at this event underscores its commitment to delivering top-tier vehicles that meet the demands of the Nigerian market.
“Visitors to the Chery exhibition booth will have an opportunity to experience a variety of models, from stylish sedans like the Arrizo 5 to rugged SUVs such as the Tiggo 8 Pro, Tiggo 4 Pro, and Tiggo 2 Pro, each designed to meet specific needs and preferences.
“Attendees will have the opportunity to get up close with each vehicle, enabling them to explore features such as ergonomic designs, fuel efficiency, artificial intelligence drivetrain, and high-performance engines that define the Chery brand.”
According to the firm, Chery’s customer-centric approach ensures that there is a model to fit every lifestyle and budget.
It stated that in line with the trade fair’s theme of promoting business and investment in Nigeria, Chery would also emphasize its contributions to the Nigerian economy.
It noted that the trade fair serves as an ideal platform for Chery to reiterate its dedication to contributing positively to the Nigerian market.
It declared that prospective customers and visitors to the fair would be treated to exclusive offers and discounts on Chery Tiggo 2 throughout the event.
It said the limited-time promotions had been designed to make owning a Chery vehicle more accessible to Nigerian families and businesses.
In addition to discounts, it said Chery would offering test drives to attendees interested in experiencing the cars firsthand, providing them with a feel of Chery’s hallmark comfort, control, and luxury.
The test drive sessions would be guided by knowledgeable brand representatives ready to answer any questions and ensure a smooth experience, it stated.
It also disclosed that Chery’s participation at the Lagos International Trade Fair would highlight its dedication to environmental sustainability as well.
It said, “The display will feature information on Chery’s research into green technologies and efforts to reduce emissions in its vehicle production and operations.
“This aligns with global trends towards eco-friendly solutions, and Chery’s commitment to environmental responsibility further positions it as a forward-thinking brand.
“Attendees interested in environmentally conscious automotive options will gain valuable insights into Chery’s plans for a greener future.”
Sales Director for Carloha Nigeria, Mr. Joseph Omokhapue, said, “The Chery display at the Lagos International Trade Fair promises exciting benefits for all our visitors.
“This display goes beyond just showcasing our vehicles; it’s an invitation for Nigerians to experience Chery’s commitment to quality, reliability, and excellence, strengthening Chery’s position as a top choice in the automotive industry.
“Come and explore a perfect blend of cutting-edge vehicles, interactive displays, and exclusive offers. Chery’s presence at the 2024 Lagos International Trade Fair is set to be a major attraction.”
The statement said through strategic partnerships with local dealers and suppliers, Chery had created jobs and built valuable relationships in Nigeria’s automotive sector.
“This commitment to the nation’s economic growth aligns with Chery’s vision to foster long-term success and sustainability in Nigeria,” it stated.
Carloha therefore urged everyone—from auto enthusiasts to prospective car buyers—to visit the Chery display, and enjoy six years free service, six years warranty or 200,000 kilometres, a flexible auto financing solution with fair prices for all vehicles, and 24/7 services and parts support nationwide.
“This ensures that owners can drive their vehicles with peace of mind, knowing they have reliable support and service from Chery for years to come,” the statement added.

LCCI lists strategies to bring more women into auto industry 

Key implementable strategies to get more women into the auto manufacturing formed the subject of discourse at a one-day symposium organised on Wednesday October 30 by the Automobile & Allied Sub-Sectoral Group in collaboration with the Women Group and LPG & Natural Gas Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
The programme was held under the theme “From Tokunbo to Manufacturing: The Role of Women Breaking Barriers and Driving Growth”.
Gabriel Idahosa, president and chairman of Council at LCCI in his opening address described the event as both timely and significant, highlighting the transformative journey of the automotive industry and the pivotal role women play in its evolution, particularly in the context of Nigeria’s economic landscape.
The LCCI boss said, to cultivate a more inclusive and dynamic automotive industry, several strategies should be implemented, such as deliberate establishment of mentorship programmes that could provide guidance and support for women navigating their careers in the automotive sector.
He said sponsorships could also be crucial in advancing women’s careers by providing opportunities for growth and exposure.
Idahosa said, “More importantly, companies should actively promote diversity and inclusion within their corporate culture.
“Creating an environment that acknowledges diverse perspectives can enhance innovation and employee satisfaction.”
He noted that encouraging young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields would expand the pipeline of female talent into the automotive industry.
According to him, initiatives such as the Red Bull STEMx programme are aimed at inspiring more women to enter motorsport engineering roles.
Acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of women in the automotive industry could inspire others and foster a culture of recognition, he said.
He cited the example of the Women in Supply Chain Award honouring female leaders whose accomplishments and mentorship set a foundation for ladies in the sector.
Globally, he noted that women had been instrumental in shaping the automotive industry, contributing to various facets from design and engineering to leadership and entrepreneurship.
“As of 2020, women comprise approximately 23.6% of the automotive manufacturing workforce in the United States. While this indicates progress, it also underscores the underrepresentation of women in the sector, especially in Nigeria,” Idahosa said.
Women such as Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, have demonstrated exceptional leadership, steering the company toward innovation and profitability.
Her tenure is said to exemplify the impact of female leadership in the automotive sector.
In Nigeria, women’s participation in the automotive industry has been acknowledged as growing.

Organizations such as the Women Automotive Network (WAN) are said to be active, providing professional growth and networking platforms, thereby fostering greater inclusion.
Despite the advancements, women in the automotive industry encounter several challenges, such as the automotive sector has been traditionally male-dominated.
Women are under represented in leadership roles within the industry.

The Nigerian automotive sector has reportedly undergone remarkable changes, transitioning from the dominance of used vehicle imports, commonly referred to as ‘Tokunbo,’ to a focus on local manufacturing.

This shift has been propelled by economic policies to foster industrialization and reduce import dependence.

In the LPG and downstream natural gas sector, women’s involvement is increasingly significant. Women are actively engaged in operations, from engineering to management.
Their contributions are vital to the efficiency and innovation within the sector.

The journey from ‘Tokunbo’ to local auto manufacturing in Nigeria’s automotive industry is said to signify substantial economic progress.

Women have been and continue to be instrumental in this transformation, breaking barriers and driving growth.
However, to fully realize the potential of women’s contributions, concerted efforts must be made to address existing challenges and promote inclusivity.
The automotive industry can become a more equitable and dynamic field by implementing strategic initiatives focused on mentorship, diversity, education, and recognition.

The success stories of women in automotive and allied sectors serve as inspiration and a call to action for continued advancement and support.