NADDC Hosts Automotive SSC of Nigeria

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) hosted a key meeting for both new and existing members of the Sector Skills Council (SSC) for the Automotive Industry today, the 27th February 2025, at the Ajuji Greenwich Hotel in Abuja. 

This pivotal gathering aimed to fashion out more holistic ways of performing the roles of SSC in order to provide critical solutions to industry challenges, elect new executive members for the SSC and admit new stakeholders into the Council.

The Director-General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, addressed the meeting with enthusiasm, outlining the two primary objectives of the event: electing new executive members to oversee the SSC's affairs and expanding the membership to include relevant new stakeholders. He emphasized the rapid technological advancements within the automotive industry, particularly the rise of mechatronics, which integrates mechanics, electronics, computing, and control engineering to create more efficient and versatile systems.

Mr. Osanipin also highlighted the collaborative efforts between the NADDC and the SSC to develop National Occupation Standards (NOS) for the automotive sector adding that the engagements have led to the creation of approved curriculum designed to address existing skill gaps within the industry. Looking ahead, Osanipin stressed the importance of making these resources widely available to universities, polytechnics, and technical colleges, particularly those focused on technical education, to ensure adequate preparation for the next generation of professionals.

During the event, Engr. Francis Udeh, outgoing President of the Sector Skill Council, presented the overview of SSC till date. He explained that the SSC includes various stakeholders, such as assembly plants, workshop owners and training institutions. He highlighted the development of over 16 National Occupational Standards in key areas of the automotive industry, which would form the foundation of training programs aimed at building a highly skilled workforce. He underscored the unique role each member plays in ensuring that the industry remains competitive on a global scale.

In his acceptance speech the President- elect of SSC Engr. Nnodim Best on behalf of the new Executive members thanked the NADDC for the Council's support and the out-going Executive members for the numerous achievements recorded during their tenure in office. He also assured of more SSC collaborative engagements with the NADDC in driving the auto industry to greater heights.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration among all stakeholders to address the challenges facing the automotive sector. The efforts of the SSC, a body responsible for setting the standards for automotive training and overseeing the entire training delivery, regulating, assessment and certification in the auto industry cannot be gainsaid, and the Council looks forward to the ongoing support of its members in driving the industry forward. This event marks a significant step in strengthening the automotive industry in Nigeria and positioning it for future growth and success.