Tinubu’s EV Push Gains Momentum as FG Approves Electric Buses, NADDC Targets Nnewi Automotive Hub

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has unveiled plans to establish a full-scale Automotive Development Park in Nnewi, Anambra State, as the Federal Government approves the rollout of electric buses for civil servants in a bold shift toward sustainable transportation.

Director-General of NADDC, Oluwemimo Osanipin, made the disclosure in Abuja while outlining the Council’s strategic initiatives under the Nigeria First Policy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He described the proposed Nnewi Automotive Development Park as a game-changing project designed to close critical infrastructure gaps and attract large-scale investment into Nigeria’s automobile industry.

According to him, the park will provide shared facilities for manufacturers, reducing startup costs and encouraging more players to establish operations within the ecosystem.

“We are building an Automotive Park that allows investors and manufacturers to leverage shared infrastructure rather than bear the full cost individually. At this stage, we are seeking strong investor participation to accelerate delivery,” Osanipin said.

In a major policy boost, the NADDC boss revealed that the Federal Government has approved electric buses for use by civil servants, with procurement to be done through local vehicle assemblers.

He added that the initiative will be supported by the installation of charging stations across strategic locations nationwide, signaling a coordinated push toward electric mobility.

“The approval of electric buses is a significant step. These vehicles will be sourced locally, and the supporting charging infrastructure is already being planned to ensure seamless adoption,” he stated.

Osanipin further noted that NADDC is intensifying efforts to localize the production of key automotive components, including batteries and tyres, through targeted training and industry support programmes.

To strengthen the sector, he disclosed that the Council is preparing a new bill for submission to the National Assembly to align its operations with evolving global standards.

He also highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Bank of Industry to enable qualified stakeholders access funding under the National Automotive Development Fund.

Reiterating the Council’s commitment to transforming the industry, Osanipin called on Nigerians to embrace locally made vehicles, stressing that increased patronage would drive job creation, industrial growth, and improved contributions to the nation’s GDP.