NADDC, BPP move to implement Nigeria-first policy in automotive sector

THE National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) have outlined plans to deepen the implementation of the Nigeria-first policy in the automotive sector, with a focus on boosting local production, creating jobs, strengthening Nigerian businesses and promoting the patronage of made-in-Nigeria vehicles and automotive components.

The agencies disclosed this on 9th October 2026 at a press conference held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

The director-general of NADDC, Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, said the council was committed to supporting local vehicle assemblers to transition from Semi Knocked Down (SKD) assembly to Complete Knocked Down (CKD) production.

Osanipin stated that NADDC would continue to collaborate with the BPP and other relevant stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the policy, warning that companies that fail to comply with established government automotive regulations could be denied access to government patronage.

The NADDC DG emphasised that sustained government patronage of locally manufactured vehicles and components would strengthen the domestic automotive value chain and provide the market confidence required for manufacturers to invest in higher levels of production.

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In his remarks, the director-general of the BPP, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun, said the bureau was developing an institutional framework, standard policies and an appropriate circular to guide the implementation of the Nigeria-first policy across relevant government organisations, following the directive of President Bola Tinubu.

Adedokun noted that the government had moved beyond policy declarations and commenced consultations with local automotive assemblers to better understand the challenges confronting domestic manufacturers, particularly the need for stronger demand for locally produced products.

He explained that the Nigeria-first policy was designed to strengthen Nigerian businesses and promote the use of made-in-Nigeria products, including vehicles and automotive components.

According to him, successful implementation of the policy would promote industrialisation, create jobs for skilled workers and technicians, strengthen local supply chains and provide increased opportunities for young Nigerians.

Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration with local manufacturers and other stakeholders to ensure that the Nigeria-first policy delivers tangible benefits to the automotive industry and the Nigerian economy.