In a significant move to drive Nigeria’s automotive industry towards green energy solutions, the Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Joseph Osanipin, led a high-level delegation to Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) on September 18, 2024. The visit aimed to explore a potential partnership focused on the development of electric vehicles (EVs) and the conversion of petrol-powered cars to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles.
Mr. Osanipin and his team were warmly welcomed by Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), the founder of ABUAD, alongside the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Olarinde Elisabeta Smaranda, and senior management officials. The meeting underscored the growing importance of academic-industry collaboration in fostering innovation and advancing Nigeria’s automotive sector.
The NADDC delegation toured ABUAD’s state-of-the-art Mechatronics Engineering Department, which plays a pivotal role in training the next generation of engineers. Associate Professor Oluwafemi Onibonoje led the tour, demonstrating the university’s advanced facilities and showcasing research that aligns with the future of electric vehicle technology and sustainable energy solutions.
As part of the visit, the delegation also explored the ABUAD Industrial Parks, with Engr. Adesanmi Aladejana, Director of Works at the university, providing insights into the practical application of engineering principles and the university’s contribution to national industrial growth. The industrial parks are designed to foster innovation, particularly in engineering and technological fields.
Aare Afe Babalola, in his remarks, highlighted the crucial role of partnerships between academic institutions and government agencies in national development. He stated, “The journey to establishing ABUAD was grounded in a vision of transforming education and fostering innovation in Nigeria. By working closely with agencies like the NADDC, we can accelerate the nation’s industrial growth and promote sustainable automotive technologies.”
Mr. Osanipin expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended by ABUAD and commended the university’s dedication to driving technological advancement. He emphasized NADDC’s commitment to supporting the local production of automotive components that meet international standards, stressing the significance of electric mobility and CNG vehicle conversion in reducing carbon emissions.
“This collaboration with ABUAD is strategic, especially in promoting electric vehicles and converting petrol vehicles to CNG. Both initiatives are critical in reducing carbon emissions and aligning Nigeria with global environmental goals,” said Osanipin.
The visit featured several notable attendees from ABUAD’s management team, including the University Bursar, Pastor Dupe Babalola; Director of International Collaboration and Linkages, Professor Afolalu; and Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Tunde Olofintila, among others.
The NADDC plays a key role in developing Nigeria’s automotive sector by fostering local production, sustainability, and innovation. The potential partnership with ABUAD is expected to advance Nigeria’s ambitions to transition to a greener automotive industry while enhancing the country’s economic and environmental landscape.
This collaboration signifies a crucial step toward fostering sustainable transportation solutions, while providing Nigeria with the opportunity to become a key player in the global automotive transition towards electric and CNG-powered vehicles.
