Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed the state’s readiness to collaborate with the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) to unlock investment potential in the automotive sector.
Speaking through the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, at the opening of NADDC’s 2025 Strategic Management Retreat held at Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, Oyebanji emphasized the role of the automotive industry in driving economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
“The automotive sector is a vital pillar for economic advancement and job creation,” he said, adding that Ekiti is creating an enabling environment for such investments. The three-day retreat, themed “Fostering Creativity and Innovation for Continuous Performance Improvement,” brought together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for innovation and collaboration in the sector.
Governor Oyebanji welcomed NADDC’s focus on creativity and strategy, noting that sectors like automotive technology could significantly benefit from localized innovation, youth skills development, and sustainability.
He stated that the state was particularly interested in working with NADDC to develop specialized training for young people in areas such as electric vehicle technologies and automotive software.
“Ekiti is prepared to facilitate research collaborations and promote green practices in the industry,” the governor added. “We’re eager to adopt global best practices while tailoring solutions to our local needs.”
Oyebanji also called for stronger partnerships between research institutions, private sector actors, and the NADDC to localize automotive production and expand economic opportunities in the state.
NADDC Director-General, Mr. Joseph Osanipin, described the retreat as a “strategic investment” in the council’s future. He outlined three key goals: improving service delivery through innovation, addressing sectoral challenges through open dialogue, and strengthening internal and external collaboration.
“We must use this opportunity to learn, innovate, and shape a stronger future for the Nigerian automotive sector,” Osanipin said.
Also speaking, NADDC Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Ronke Amodu, said the retreat was designed to challenge conventional thinking and improve performance across the board. She commended Ekiti State for its commitment to youth development, entrepreneurship, and for providing a welcoming atmosphere for such an important gathering.
She noted that the state’s proactive stance in encouraging innovation and investment made it a fitting host for the retreat.
The event is expected to generate actionable ideas to advance Nigeria’s automotive agenda and support states like Ekiti in tapping into the industry’s potential.
