NAMA Seeks Protection for Nigeria’s Auto Industry Amid 2026 Tariff Reforms
The Nigerian Automotive Manufacturers Association (NAMA) has called on the Federal Government to implement measures that will protect the country’s automobile industry as the 2026 fiscal and tariff reforms come into effect.The association expressed concern that while the reforms may reduce the cost of imported vehicles, they could also expose local manufacturers to unfair competition if adequate safeguards are not introduced.
According to NAMA, Nigeria’s automotive industry has attracted significant investments in recent years through local vehicle assembly plants, technology transfer and job creation. However, the association warned that these gains could be reversed if imported vehicles continue to dominate the market without policies that support domestic production.Industry stakeholders noted that local manufacturers face several challenges, including high production costs, unstable power supply, limited access to foreign exchange and the rising cost of importing vehicle components. They argued that additional pressure from cheaper imports could slow the growth of the sector.
NAMA urged the Federal Government to strengthen the National Automotive Industry Development Plan by introducing incentives that encourage local manufacturing, improve access to finance and support the production of vehicle components within Nigeria.The association also called for consistent government policies that would encourage investors to expand production and create more employment opportunities in the automotive sector.
Experts believe that a stronger local automobile industry would help reduce dependence on imported vehicles, conserve foreign exchange and contribute to Nigeria’s industrialisation agenda. They added that increased local production could also improve technology transfer and strengthen the country’s manufacturing base.While welcoming the government’s efforts to reform the economy, NAMA stressed that industrial growth and consumer interests should be balanced to ensure long-term development.The association expressed optimism that continued dialogue between the government and industry stakeholders would produce policies capable of protecting local manufacturers while promoting healthy competition in Nigeria’s automobile market.
