National Auto Policy Set for Passage as Minister Signals Fresh Momentum
The Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, has raised fresh hope for the long-awaited National Auto Industry Development Policy (NAIDP), saying its enactment into law is now imminent following the approval of the Nigeria Industry Policy (NIP) by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
Enoh disclosed at the 18th edition of the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) International Awards held in Lagos, where he was represented by the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin.
He explained that the signing of the NIP by the FEC has provided a clear policy framework for Nigeria’s industrial strategy, with the auto policy next in line for legislative backing.
“The Nigeria Industry Policy has been signed by the FEC. That will guide Nigeria’s industrial development. The next is the enactment of the Auto Policy into law. These are deliberate steps we are taking to ensure that the automotive sector is given priority,” the minister said.
Osanipin, in his remarks, assured stakeholders that NADDC is vigorously pushing for the passage of the NAIDP by the National Assembly, with the second quarter of 2026 targeted for its enactment. He noted that the policy is critical to strengthening local vehicle manufacturing and ensuring that only high-quality and roadworthy vehicles are allowed into the country.
“We remain committed to policies and programmes that strengthen local manufacturing in Nigeria. By the second quarter of 2026, part of what we intend to achieve is the enactment of the Auto Policy. We will soon be engaging the National Assembly and will require stakeholders to participate actively in the public hearings,” he said.
The NADDC Director-General also disclosed plans to gradually phase out used vehicle imports as part of broader efforts to promote local production, improve road safety and enhance environmental sustainability.
He added that the Council had, in March 2025, launched Nigeria’s End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) Recycling Regulation, aimed at creating a circular economy, generating jobs and formalising the recycling and repurposing of old vehicles to turn automotive waste into economic value.
Osanipin commended the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association for its consistency in recognising excellence within the automotive industry, describing the awards as a valuable platform that brings together key stakeholders and the media to drive growth and accountability in the sector.
Industry players say the eventual passage of the NAIDP will provide the regulatory clarity needed to attract investment, deepen local content and accelerate the transformation of Nigeria’s automotive industry.
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