FG to Establish Standards for Electric, CNG Vehicles, Says NADDC Director-General

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has revealed its plans to validate the National Occupational Standards for the conversion and maintenance of electric vehicles (EVs) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles.

Joseph Osanipin, the Director-General of NADDC, disclosed this during a validation workshop for the draft of national standards for auto gas vehicles held in Nasarawa recently. The workshop aimed to develop a blueprint for skills development and standardized operational procedures in the conversion, calibration, and maintenance of these new automotive energy sources, aligning with the government’s agenda for sustainable development.

Osanipin highlighted the potential benefits of implementing these standards, including job creation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. He emphasized that the approval of the draft by the National Assembly would facilitate the establishment of more CNG gas stations in Abuja and reduce dependency on traditional fuels like Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel.

“If we achieve what the Federal Government wants us to achieve with autogas, it will reduce the dependency on PMS and diesel and mitigate environmental concerns. It will also create more jobs and wealth for the nation,” stated Osanipin.

The workshop aimed to ensure that the input of all relevant stakeholders was incorporated into the development of the national standards. Osanipin emphasized the importance of aligning with international best practices to drive the automotive sector to global standards.

He also reiterated the significance of the Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan 2023–2033, launched by the Federal Government in 2023. The plan aims to revitalize the automotive industry, foster sustainable growth, and promote technological and skills development within the sector.