The Local Automotive Industry Patronage Bill: Driving Nigeria Toward Economic Growth.

 By WorldWire News 

Local Automotive Industry Patronage Bill, 2025

Imagine a future where every government vehicle on Nigerian roads proudly bears the stamp of local innovation engineered, assembled, and tested by Nigerian hands. This is no longer just a dream. With the introduction of the Local Automotive Industry Patronage Bill, 2025, Nigeria is taking a significant step toward redefining its economic path through industrial empowerment.

The bill, which has now passed its second reading in the Senate, was introduced by Senator Patrick Ndubueze, representing Imo North. His vision is simple but transformative: reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported vehicles and strengthen the nation’s automotive manufacturing sector. At the core of this legislation is a push for government institutions to prioritize Nigerian-made vehicles, thereby fueling domestic industry and fostering economic resilience.

Why This Bill Matters

The heavy dependence on imported vehicles has long been a burden on Nigeria’s economy. According to Senator Ndubueze, this import culture contributes to the devaluation of the naira, hampers the growth of local industries, and accelerates the outflow of capital. He emphasizes that economic recovery and growth require strategic policies that support local production especially in sectors like automotive manufacturing that have massive job creation potential.

Currently, Nigeria has issued 54 licenses to automobile manufacturers, but sadly, only six companies remain operational. Many have either folded or moved operations to neighboring countries like Ghana, citing Nigeria’s unstable infrastructure and lack of consistent policy support. This bill seeks to reverse that trend by offering a policy framework that protects and empowers local manufacturers.

What the Bill Proposes

The Local Automotive Industry Patronage Bill proposes that at least 75% of all government vehicles must be sourced from local manufacturers. To qualify as a “local manufacturer” under this bill, a company must meet two key criteria:

1. Employ at least 70% Nigerian citizens.

2. Invest a minimum of 75% in local research and development (R&D).

This dual condition is designed not only to stimulate job creation but also to ensure that innovation and value remain within Nigerian borders. By encouraging companies to develop technologies locally, the bill aims to build technical capacity, enhance productivity, and reduce dependency on foreign know-how.

Learning from Global Examples

The strategy behind this bill is not unprecedented. Countries like China, India, and Malaysia once faced similar industrial challenges. By restricting the importation of foreign vehicles and providing support to local manufacturers, these countries managed to transform their automotive sectors into global powerhouses. Today, Nigeria imports vehicles and goods from those very nations evidence of how well-planned industrial policies can drive sustainable development.

Senator Ndubueze urges Nigerians to stop seeing foreign products as inherently superior. “If we do not believe in what we produce,” he noted during Senate deliberations, “we will continue to weaken our currency and lose control of our economic destiny.”

Political and Public Support

The bill has garnered strong support from fellow legislators. Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno remarked that the bill complements existing executive directives on local content, providing a legal backbone to ensure continuity, regardless of future political shifts.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin also praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to generate employment, especially for automotive engineers and technicians, and to attract both local and foreign investment. He emphasized that supporting local production is not just about economics it’s also about national pride and security.

In a nation where youth unemployment remains high, the automotive industry could become a cornerstone for job creation, skills development, and technological advancement. By building a thriving ecosystem around vehicle production, Nigeria can absorb thousands into formal employment and offer sustainable livelihoods.

What’s Next?

The bill is currently with the Senate Committee on Public Procurement, which has been tasked with reviewing its contents and providing a comprehensive report within four weeks. If passed into law, the policy would mark a turning point in Nigeria’s industrial and economic trajectory.

However, implementation will require more than legislative will. Stakeholders government agencies, private investors, labor unions, and citizens must work together to create an enabling environment. This includes improving infrastructure, providing tax incentives, and ensuring transparency in procurement processes.

A Call to Action

The Local Automotive Industry Patronage Bill offers Nigeria a critical opportunity to reclaim economic sovereignty and build an industrial base capable of competing globally. By prioritizing homegrown talent and innovation, the bill sets the stage for a more self-reliant, prosperous nation.

But legislation alone is not enough. Public support and awareness are vital. As citizens, we must champion Nigerian-made products and challenge the perception that foreign equals better. We must encourage innovation, reward local excellence, and push for policies that uplift our industries.

Stay Informed. Stay Engaged.

Follow WorldWire News for updates on this vital bill and other legislative efforts shaping Nigeria’s future.

 Let’s drive Nigeria forward one locally made vehicle at a time.