President Bola Tinubu has given the assurance that his administration would continue to put in place policies for the industrialization of the country.
A statement by the presidential spokesman Chief Ajuri Ngelale, said Tinubu disclosed this when he received a delegation of the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers and the Nigerian Automotive Manufacturers Association.
The President, represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, met the members led by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ms Doris Uzoka-Anite, on Friday in Abuja.
According to the statement, “The Chief of Staff to the President, while thanking the delegation for the visit, assured them of the President’s commitment to Nigeria’s industrialization as evidenced by all of the policies being implemented under his administration.
“He promised to assist in facilitating the speedy passage of the legislative bill. He, however, implored that locally-manufactured vehicles should be of the highest quality that will stand the test of time and complement the Federal Government’s efforts in revitalizing the industry.
“He also urged the associations to look into producing vehicles that would be affordable for all categories of Nigerians at a time when President Bola Tinubu is set to provide consumer credit for millions of Nigerians to purchase vehicles and other important goods and services.”
The delegation had earlier notified the President of their efforts to start manufacturing vehicle and spare parts in Nigeria.
He said that a legislative bill to drive the automotive industry was being drafted and reviewed by the Federal Ministry of Justice.
They emphasised the need to develop the industry, which would create massive employment for youths and ease the burden on the much-needed foreign exchange.
The delegation consisted of the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council, Mr Oluwemimo Osanipin.
Others are the representatives of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, as well as Executive Directors of Stallion Group, Toyota/CEAO and NISSAN.