Professor Odion Odiboh has called for the creation of a national automotive economy agency to support the “Nigeria First” philosophy. Speaking at the Nigeria Auto Industry Summit in Lagos, the mass communication professor from Delta State University said the agency would help grow local car production and boost the economy.
He suggested that the agency be led by a director-general, with a $5 billion seed fund and a 25-year plan to become profitable. Odiboh said the agency should attract investors and support companies that make car parts locally. He also urged Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to use more Nigerian materials, workers, and services. According to him, this will reduce reliance on imported car parts and strengthen local businesses. Odiboh asked government bodies like the Standards Organisation of Nigeria to ensure that made-in-Nigeria cars meet quality standards and truly reflect local design and content.
