The Federal Government has inaugurated an automotive training centre at the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), Ikorodu, as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s automotive industry, expand electric vehicle production, and promote technology transfer.
The initiative forms part of the National Automotive Policy, which targets 40 percent local content in vehicle production and aims for 30 percent of all vehicles produced in Nigeria to be electric. According to officials, the centre is designed to equip young people, artisans, and technicians with modern automotive skills, including the maintenance and handling of electric vehicles, while also fostering innovation and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global automobile market.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment said the facility reflects government’s broader commitment to industrial growth. He explained that the centre would support technology transfer, stimulate local production, and provide jobs for Nigerians.
The centre in Ikorodu is one of 21 automotive training facilities planned across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to ensure equitable access to skills development. Additional centres are expected to be established in the coming years to further expand opportunities, boost economic activities, and help address unemployment.
At the event, Lagos State Governor described the automotive industry as a key driver of industrial development. He noted that the training centre would allow learners to work with advanced diagnostic tools and global-standard service protocols, preparing them for opportunities in both local and international markets.
The Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) added that the centre aligns with the National Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP). He stressed that the facility would provide practical training for artisans, engineers, and technicians, thereby strengthening local content in vehicle assembly and paving the way for Nigerian-made cars that meet global standards.
The Vice-Chancellor of LASUSTECH expressed pride in hosting the centre, describing it as a hub for concept design, prototyping, and commercialization. He explained that the university’s strategic IMPACT agenda aligns with the centre’s goals of building competitiveness and driving innovation in the automotive sector.
With the opening of the Ikorodu facility, Nigeria has taken another step towards reducing dependence on imports, promoting electric mobility, and creating a skilled workforce capable of supporting the country’s long-term industrial vision.
