The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has concluded a high-level working trip to Japan, securing new partnerships and technical cooperation to support Nigeria’s first modern End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) recycling ecosystem. The visit was led by the Director General, Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, who explained that the engagement marks a major step in building a structured and sustainable automotive waste system in the country.
During the visit, the NADDC delegation held meetings with Kaiho Industry Co. Ltd., described as a global leader in End of Life Vehicle processing. Officials received detailed briefings on internationally certified recycling frameworks and toured dismantling, material recovery and eco-friendly waste treatment facilities. Kaiho reaffirmed its commitment to support Nigeria through what was called a multi-phase programme covering a pre-feasibility study, factory design, equipment installation, heavy machinery deployment and capacity-building trainings in both Japan and Nigeria. According to NADDC, this collaboration will help strengthen Nigeria’s auto used parts market and raise recycling standards.
The Council also held strategic talks with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization – Investment and Technology Promotion Office (UNIDO–ITPO) Japan. Discussions centred on Nigeria’s newly adopted ELV and Automotive Waste Recycling Regulations (2024). UNIDO officials commended the framework and explored new areas of cooperation, including links with JICA and opportunities to attract Japanese investors and technology partners into Nigeria’s growing ELV sector.
To reinforce diplomatic support, NADDC paid a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Embassy in Tokyo, briefing the Chargé d’Affaires, Mrs Folashade Shobande, on the mission’s objectives and investment opportunities within the automotive landscape. The Embassy pledged to continue facilitating investor linkages and industry-focused collaborations with Japanese stakeholders.
The delegation rounded off its mission with a meeting with the leader of the Nigerian community in Japan, Mr Emeka, sensitizing them on the ELV Regulations and automotive initiatives. They emphasized the need for collective support in ensuring vehicles exported to Nigeria, especially pre-owned, meet global standards.
The mission recorded progress toward building a safe, environmentally sound and economically viable ELV recycling industry that supports Nigeria’s circular economy, job creation ambitions and sustainable automotive growth.
