FG Backs Local EV Industry Drive

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating the development of the local electric vehicle (EV) industry as a catalyst for sustainable transportation, economic diversification, and employment generation.

Speaking during a high-profile visit to the Lagos-based Saglev Incorporated EV assembly facility, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, stated that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains fully dedicated to supporting Nigerian businesses, especially in forward-looking sectors like EV manufacturing.

According to the Minister, “The Nigeria-first policy of President Tinubu is committed to supporting investors exactly like the demographic we’re seeing here. From industrial to trade and investment policies, we are focused on helping Nigerian investors thrive.”

The Saglev EV plant, which has emerged as a flagship example of Nigeria’s clean-tech industrial potential, assembles energy-efficient electric vehicles designed to drastically reduce operating costs and environmental impact. Oduwole noted that Saglev’s models consume about 80% less power than traditional fuel-powered vehicles — a significant advantage as Nigeria faces energy and environmental challenges.

Beyond support in principle, the government is taking steps to resolve long-standing industry hurdles, particularly around customs clearance delays and poor infrastructure.

The Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Joseph Osanipin, revealed that Nigeria’s auto electrification policy is being fast-tracked from a framework to actual legislation. “We’ve completed the first and second reviews, and we’re now collaborating with top legal experts to turn the policy into law. In a few months, we’ll be ready,” he said.

Additionally, the NADDC has developed a National Occupational Standard for EV servicing and maintenance. This curriculum will soon be integrated into universities, polytechnics, and technical colleges nationwide to build skilled human capital for the nascent sector.

Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, pledged the state’s backing for local EV manufacturing through industrial clusters such as the Lekki Free Trade Zone and strategic logistics via the Lekki Deep Sea Port.

However, despite the encouraging words from government officials, Saglev CEO Sam Faleye flagged several operational bottlenecks. “We currently have five containers of semi-knocked-down EV kits stuck at the port. These delays are due to wrong HS codes and customs portal errors, and our customers who have already paid are waiting,” Faleye explained.

He called for an urgent streamlining of customs procedures to support the EV sector and urged the government to enforce value addition rules. “We must discourage the importation of fully built EVs and incentivize local assembly. This is how to create jobs and grow technical expertise in Nigeria,” he added.

Faleye also credited the NADDC for maintaining rigorous quality checks but emphasized the need to move beyond quality assurance to systemic support. “We choose to focus on solutions, not problems. But government facilitation is critical to our long-term viability,” he said.

As global momentum continues to shift toward decarbonization and clean mobility, Nigeria’s drive to localize EV manufacturing is timely. Experts say a thriving EV ecosystem could reduce the nation’s fuel subsidy burden, cut emissions, and position Nigeria as a regional manufacturing hub.

The Minister’s visit marks a significant step in aligning Nigeria’s industrial agenda with global sustainability goals, and with coordinated policy support, the electric vehicle industry could become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s future economy.