By Habibu Harisu

Mr Jelani Aliyu, Director-General (DG) National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) says the agency has been repositioned to provide millions of jobs through automotive industry in the country.

Aliyu who spoke on Thursday in Sokoto at a staff retreat said NADDC was capable of providing direct and indirect jobs to citizens through various opportunities the sector provided.

The DG stressed that NADDC’ strategies to achieve success in manufacturing of vehicles in Nigeria as well as other accessories had been facilitated.

Aliyu said the activity would surely pave way for Nigeria to be on the automotive competitive world which would save nation’s income and enhance revenue generation.

”Presently, the sector provided jobs to about 50,000 people in the country.

“With the advent of electric cars; more investments are being recorded with more job opportunities along with other economic advantages,’’ he said.

In his address, the Board Chairman of NADDC, Sen. Osita Izunaso, said the Federal Government had propelled enabling environment for the sector to improve.

Izunaso said the retreat was part of the management and board’ effort to harness staff potentialities.

”NADDC is developing dynamic and effective directions for automotive industry in Nigeria, therefore, the agency evolves policies, programmes and actions that drove investment in the sector.

”The agency like other government organisations is facing challenges due to COVID-19 pandemic, in spite of that, NADDC was able to complete projects and record achievements.

”Some of the projects are, completion of new Lagos and Zaria testing centres; opening of seven zonal offices; completed road project leading to Enugu testing laboratory.

“The agency also established automotive training centers of various stages among others,’’ he said. (NAN)