NADDC and SON Introduce VehCAP to Strengthen Vehicle Safety and Standards
The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), in partnership with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), has officially launched the Vehicle Conformity Assessment Programme (VehCAP) in Abuja. This initiative is designed to significantly enhance vehicle safety, ensure environmental compliance, and improve the overall quality of vehicles entering Nigeria. VehCAP addresses growing concerns related to the importation of substandard used vehicles, which often lack proper verification of safety features, emissions standards, structural integrity, and lifecycle history. These issues have been linked to increased road accidents, environmental risks, and market imbalances in the automotive sector.
Government and Stakeholder Support for VehCAP
During the launch event, Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, delivered a keynote address, highlighting VehCAP as a strong example of institutional collaboration. He reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to industrialisation, consumer protection, and regulatory efficiency. Enoh noted that VehCAP is embedded within Nigeria's broader economic framework, integrating policies around importation, foreign exchange, and vehicle renewal systems. He emphasised that all vehicles and automotive products entering Nigeria must now obtain Shipment Certification under VehCAP before customs clearance and market entry, marking a critical step in regulatory oversight.
Implementation and Technical Oversight
The Director-General of NADDC, Joseph Osanipin, explained that VehCAP introduces a "verify before entry" system, ensuring vehicles are inspected and certified prior to shipment. Under this arrangement, NADDC will provide technical oversight, including vehicle classification and alignment with national automotive policies to support both regulation and industry growth. Similarly, the Director-General of SON, Ifeanyi Okeke, stressed the importance of standards-driven initiatives in strengthening Nigeria's industrial ecosystem. Okeke aligned VehCAP with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, focusing on economic revitalisation and consumer protection.
Legislative and Institutional Backing
Key stakeholders, including Chairman of the Senate Committee on Industry, Francis Fadahunsi, and the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Isokpunwu Osaruwanwem, expressed strong legislative and institutional support for VehCAP. They highlighted the programme's potential to improve road safety, enhance environmental sustainability, protect consumers, and restore market discipline by restricting substandard imports. Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have also been urged to align their procurement processes with VehCAP to ensure consistency and effectiveness.
Impact and Future Prospects
VehCAP is expected to bring about significant improvements in Nigeria's automotive sector by fostering a safer, more structured, and globally competitive environment. The programme represents a major milestone in inter-agency collaboration, reinforcing Nigeria's dedication to regulatory excellence and public safety. By addressing key issues such as vehicle quality and environmental impact, VehCAP aims to create a more balanced and sustainable market for both new and used vehicles in the country.
