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Stakeholders demand urgent passage of NAIDP Bill to revive Nigeria’s auto industry
Stakeholders demand urgent passage of NAIDP Bill to revive Nigeria’s auto industry
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s automotive sector have renewed calls for the urgent passage of the Nigeria Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) Bill, warning that continued delay is stalling investment and threatening the survival of local auto assembly plants.
The call was made during a forum organised by the Auto Sub-Sectoral Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), themed “The Impact of Non-Passage of the NAIDP Into Law on the Automotive Industry.”
Delivering the keynote address, the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Otunba Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin, commended President Bola Tinubu for prioritising industrial development, but expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay in legislating the NAIDP.
“The NAIDP has been our strategic roadmap for transforming Nigeria’s automotive industry. But the inability of lawmakers to pass the bill into law continues to discourage Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) from investing in local assembly operations,” Osanipin said.
He highlighted the Council’s achievements so far — including the establishment of 18 auto training centres and the training of over 30,000 technicians — but warned that lack of a legal framework is allowing uncontrolled importation of used vehicles and denying the industry much-needed credit schemes.
“Without the backing of law, no investor wants to commit capital into a sector that offers no guarantees or protection,” he added.
Echoing similar concerns, Chief Anselm Ilekuba, National Coordinator of the Automotive Local Content Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (ALCMAN), described the auto industry as a crucial pillar for economic diversification, job creation, and technological advancement.
He criticised the policy vacuum as a deterrent to both local and foreign investment and urged legislators to act swiftly. “Stakeholders must continue to push for the passage of this bill. Once that happens, we can unlock the industry’s full potential,” he said.
Also speaking at the forum, President and Chairman of Council of the LCCI, Gabriel Idahosa, called for lkķkpa holistic review of automotive policies and advocated for a balanced tariff structure that supports local production while protecting consumer interest.
“Failure to act will only worsen unemployment and weaken Nigeria’s industrial base,” he warned.
Chairman of the Automobile and Allied Services Group of LCCI, Femi Eguaikhide, noted that with the right legislation and investment incentives, Nigeria’s auto sector could become a significant foreign exchange earner.
“This symposium is not just about challenges — it’s about finding solutions and developing a strategy to boost local manufacturing,” he added.
Private sector stakeholders also weighed in. Syam Abdulkadir, National Operations Manager of Mikano Motors, described the absence of legislation as the sector’s “biggest obstacle,” while Otunba Adekunle Jaiyesimi, Deputy Managing Director of CFAO Mobility Nigeria Ltd, called attention to currency fluctuations and the need for vehicle financing options similar to what exists in neighbouring countries.
Representing the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Assistant Comptroller Limai Oluwakemi reiterated the agency’s commitment to promoting local content and enforcing the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First” policy through enhanced inter-agency collaboration.
The summit concluded with a unified message: the passage of the NAIDP Bill is not just an industry need but a national imperative for economic growth, job creation, and technological progress.

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JéGO unveils zero carbon EV after 505km single-charge test drive by police officer, plans Nigeria-based factory
JéGO unveils zero carbon EV after 505km single-charge test drive by police officer, plans Nigeria-based factory
JéGO Technologies Inc has launched its new high-intelligence electric vehicle, the JéGO Zero Carbon, into the Nigerian market—signalling a major leap in the country’s shift towards clean, intelligent, and locally adapted mobility.
The unveiling led by JéGO Founder and CEO Frederick Akpoghene at the 5th International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (ICAIR) was held at the University of Lagos.
Akpoghene reaffirmed the company’s mission to build transportation solutions engineered specifically for African conditions.
To demonstrate its durability, the JéGO Zero Carbon underwent a bold 505 km real-world endurance test: Ajah → Ikoyi → Osun State → back to Ajah — all completed on one full charge.
During the journey, the EV: climbed steep, muddy slopes after rainfall; navigated unpaved rural roads and villages; maneuvered through pothole-ridden corners using its 360° camera system; outperformed several petrol vehicles that stalled or turned back, and maintained strong traction, cooling, and stability across conditions.
Inside the cabin, a built-in mini-fridge kept the crew refreshed throughout the trip, turning the vehicle into a mobile workspace.
First in Nigeria
The entire Lagos–Osun–Lagos trip was driven by Officer Ebenezer of the Nigeria Police Force — not in an escort capacity, but as the sole driver.
His performance provided compelling proof that law enforcement can seamlessly adapt to EVs
- The Zero Carbon suits patrols, rapid-response operations, and government duties
- EVs can withstand long distances and mixed terrains typical of policing routes
Officer Ebenezer praised the vehicle’s handling, comfort, and safety.
The Osun trip followed an invitation from JéGO’s clean-energy partner PAM to its Net Zero Village.
Residents, engineers, climate activists, and youth innovators explored the EV, many expressing excitement at seeing an electric vehicle designed with Nigerian realities in mind.
“We’re proving that EVs are not for elites. JéGO EVs are for everyday Nigerians — founders, business people, government workers, first responders, and the police,” Akpoghene said.
Performance stuns Osun govt
State officials were astonished that the EV:
- Completed a same-day interstate journey without recharging
- Navigated rural and muddy terrain effortlessly
- Returned to Lagos on the same charge
When asked how the team planned to get back to Lagos, Akpoghene replied confidently, “Our police driver will take us back.”
And he did — seamlessly.
Following the successful demonstration, JéGO announced plans to establish its first electric vehicle and clean-energy manufacturing plant in Nigeria.
Multiple states have already tabled offers as:
Land allocation
Industrial incentives
Tax support
Workforce partnerships
Long-term collaboration frameworks
The proposed factory will support:
Local EV assembly
SKD/CKD operations
Production of JéGO PowerPods and batteries
EV servicing and diagnostics
Export to West Africa
Large-scale job creation
Final site selection will depend on infrastructure, energy availability, logistics access, and government partnership strength.
Smart, performance-driven
The Zero Carbon comes with 505km driving range, 360° surround-view cameras, traction control and hill-assist, anti-skid systems for wet roads, high-output LED lighting, Intelligent Battery Management System, egenerative braking and advanced cooling and AC systems.
Drivers praised its quiet ride and stability over rough terrain.
Charging
The EV supports:
Home charging
Public charging
Fast charging (where available)
Solar charging via JéGO PowerPods
With PowerPods, users — including security agencies — can charge their vehicles without relying on the grid.
JéGO says it is offering:
Lease-to-own plans
Staff and driver purchase programmes
This provides accessible entry points for SMEs, government agencies, ride-hailing operators, and everyday individuals.
Akpoghene said the Zero Carbon proves that long-distance, intelligent EV mobility is achievable in Nigeria — even under the rigors of police operation.
“Nigeria is not waiting for the world,” he said. “We’re building our own mobility and energy ecosystem. And the next step is manufacturing these systems right here at home.”
JéGO will now expand deployment of its EVs, PowerPods, JéGO X stations, and energy solutions across strategic states, supported by its upcoming Nigerian factory.
Auto
Jetour to showcase full SUV line-up, hybrid vehicles at 2025 Abuja motor fair
Jetour to showcase full SUV line-up, hybrid vehicles at 2025 Abuja motor fair
Jetour Mobility Services is set to make a strong presence at the 2025 Abuja International Motor Fair, showcasing its full range of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), cutting-edge hybrid models, and customer-focused services.
The brand will display its impressive line-up, such as the Jetour T2, Jetour X70 Plus, Jetour X90 Plus, Jetour X70 Dashing, and Jetour X50, as well as its newly introduced hybrid variants, the X70 Hybrid and T2 Hybrid.
These models combine performance with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, designed with today’s families and adventure-minded drivers in mind, blending advanced technology, comfort, and affordability.
Jetour’s participation underscores its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, strengthening its footprint in the SUV and crossover segments.
The company’s steady rise in the Nigerian market has been remarkable, validated by its “Fastest Growing Auto Brand of the Year” award at the 2024 Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Awards.
Jetour Nigeria is also highlighting its robust after-sales service, including genuine spare parts, technical support, and a comprehensive five-year or 150,000-kilometre warranty.
The firm says it looks forward to engaging with customers, showcasing its latest innovations, and reinforcing its position as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising automotive brands at the fair, scheduled for November 18-21 at the Eagle Square, Abuja.
Auto
BYD unveils ‘Atelier BYD’, creative hub blending innovation, sustainability, lifestyle in Lagos
BYD unveils ‘Atelier BYD’, creative hub blending innovation, sustainability, lifestyle in Lagos
BYD has introduced an exciting initiative at its brand-new showroom in the heart of Victoria Island, a monthly showcase dedicated to projects that reflect its core values of innovation, sustainability, and lifestyle.
The first edition in October featured PITH Africa, an Afrocentric streetwear brand redefining creative expression for a new generation.
Currently on display until the end of November is Mint Organic Care, a brand that champions eco-conscious living and personal well-being.
For December, a Christmas Pop-Up will spotlight projects such as Clay of Lagos, Kelly Praise, Stitches by Lope, Mostudeo, PITH Africa, and Mint Organic Care.
Upcoming editions will continue to feature innovative projects, each bringing fresh ideas and unique perspectives to enrich this collaborative platform.
BYD Nigeria is the sole and official distributor of BYD electric and hybrid vehicles in Nigeria. The brand is distributed by CFAO Mobility, a leading automotive distributor and subsidiary of the CFAO Group, which has been present in Nigeria for over 120 years.
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