The federal government through NADDC has taken another step in strengthening Nigeria’s automotive sector through global collaboration. On 2 December 2025, the Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council, Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, led a delegation to Kaiho Industry Co. Ltd in Japan. Kaiho is recognised worldwide for its expertise in end-of-life vehicle recycling and sustainable automotive resource management.
The mission aligns with NADDC’s ongoing push to grow the local industry and follows the recent launch of ELV Regulations in Lagos, as well as awareness campaigns carried out in Abuja and Kano.
Before the trip to Japan, the NADDC team had already met Kaiho representatives in Accra, where both parties engaged on opportunities that prepared the ground for the latest discussions. Upon arrival in Japan, the delegation was welcomed by the President of Kaiho Industry, Makoto Tokuda. His technical team gave detailed presentations on Japan’s internationally certified frameworks for end-of-life vehicle recycling.
The visit also included a tour of Kaiho’s major operational facilities. These covered dismantling lines, reusable parts processing areas, advanced material recovery systems and eco-friendly waste treatment sites. NADDC expressed interest in understanding how these systems could be adapted to Nigeria.
One of the major outcomes was Kaiho’s commitment to help Nigeria build a modern and sustainable ELV recycling structure. According to Kaiho’s Executive Officer and Business Development Manager, Taishi Suzuki, the company has designed a multi-phase plan for Nigeria. He explained the stages as Phase Zero, which will begin with a pre-feasibility study scheduled for the first quarter. Phase One will involve initial factory design and equipment installation. Phase Two will cover heavy machinery installation and technical support, while Phase Three will focus on capacity building with training both in Japan and on-site in Nigeria.
Mr Suzuki noted that Kaiho’s global experience in supporting countries to create safe and efficient ELV systems makes it a strong partner for Nigeria’s shift to a circular automotive economy. He reaffirmed Kaiho’s readiness to work closely with NADDC in setting up the country’s first modern ELV recycling plant. This project is expected to support environmental protection, generate jobs and boost industry growth.
Both organisations signed an Expression of Interest to move from pre-feasibility through deployment and mobilise investors for the development of Nigeria’s ELV recycling sector.
