FG Selects 12 Nigerian Universities for Electric Vehicle Production

The Federal Government has chosen 12 universities two from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to pioneer the design and production of electric vehicles. This initiative forms part of President Bola Tinubu’s "First Nigeria" policy and will be supported by the Bank of Industry and other key financial institutions.

Mr. Oluwemimo Osanipin, Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), announced the development during a stakeholder engagement session in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The event brought together industry leaders, including the Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria (AMDON) and the Nigerian Automotive Manufacturers Association (NAMA), under the theme “Import of Used Cars and Dealership Regulation in Nigeria.”

According to Osanipin, the government is laying the groundwork for the first generation of electric vehicles that will be fully designed, engineered, and assembled in Nigeria. The universities involved have already begun work on a prototype known as the “University Shuttle Bus,” a 100% electric vehicle to be produced using mostly locally sourced components. Charging stations have been completed in 10 of the participating institutions as preparations continue.

“No country or Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) produces all vehicle components on its own,” Osanipin noted. “The same is true for global brands like Mercedes, which source engines, lighting, and braking systems from specialized suppliers. What matters most is the ability to design, integrate, and sustain production.”

He emphasized that Nigeria is also building capacity for parts and components manufacturing an essential part of sustaining both production and after-sales service. “While annual vehicle production may stand at 500,000 units, the current fleet on Nigerian roads exceeds 18 million. That’s a massive after-sales market we must be ready to support,” he said.

To take advantage of this opportunity, the NADDC is focusing on components that can be produced locally with a comparative cost advantage, such as plastic parts derived from petroleum by-products. The Council is also working closely with major vehicle assemblers and other stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria becomes a hub for affordable, sustainable automotive technology.

“This is how we build for the future through innovation, infrastructure, and collaboration,” Osanipin said. “We are creating an ecosystem where Nigerian-made electric vehicles are not just a vision but a practical reality.”