Nigeria is starting an exciting new project to build electric cars. The government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has chosen twelve universities across the country to help make this happen. This is part of the First Nigeria Policy aimed at growing local businesses and creating jobs.
The head of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Oluwemimo Osanipin, said the twelve universities – two from each part of Nigeria – will design electric cars. These schools will get money from the Bank of Industry and other banks to help them build the cars.
Mr. Osanipin spoke at a meeting in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. He said the universities will work on making a special electric bus called the University Shuttle Bus. It will be designed and mostly built in Nigeria using parts made locally. This project will enable Nigeria to produce more car parts and reduce its reliance on imports.
They explained that even big car companies like Mercedes do not make every part of their cars. They obtain parts, such as engines and brakes, from other companies. Nigeria plans to do the same by making many parts locally, which will help fix cars already on Nigerian roads.
Making parts in Nigeria will save money and create jobs. Mr. Osanipin said they found parts, such as plastic pieces, that can be made cheaply here. This will help the country build more parts and grow the car industry.
The universities will finalise their designs and then collaborate with car manufacturers to develop the electric buses. This will allow students to apply what they have learned and contribute to the country’s industry growth.
To prepare for these electric buses, the government is installing charging stations at ten universities. This will help buses run more efficiently and encourage people to use electric cars.
Groups like the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria (AMDON) and the Nigeria Automotive Manufacturers Association (NAMA) support the project. They say it will help Nigeria have cleaner, better transport and grow its economy.
One professor said, “This project helps our students learn and build real things that can change Nigeria.” He said working with car companies means the buses will be made and used.
Nigeria wants to make all its electric cars locally one day. This partnership between schools and car makers shows that working together can bring success. With the government’s help and money from banks, Nigeria’s car future looks bright and green. The journey may be long, but Nigeria is moving fast toward electric cars.
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