AutoEI 15th National Conference: Engineers Task FG to Prioritize Indigenous Innovation for Nigeria & Blue Economy

Top government officials, industry leaders, and engineering professionals recently converged at the African Centre of Excellence on New Pedagogies in Engineering Education (ACENPEE), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, for the 15th National Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Automotive and Locomotive Engineers’ Institute (AutoEI).
The conference, themed "Automotive and Locomotive Engineering Innovations for Sustainable Blue Economy," issued a resounding call for innovation, sustainability, and stronger industry-academic collaboration to drive Nigeria’s economic aspirations.
A Call for Indigenous Innovation
In a communiqué issued at the end of the conference, the Institute called on the Federal Government to urgently reposition the nation’s automotive and locomotive sectors by enacting stronger policies that prioritize indigenous innovation over dependence on foreign imports.
The Institute decried the over-dependence on "dollarization" of the sector and called for homegrown strategies that optimize Nigeria’s human, natural, and mineral resources while reducing capital flight.
Key Stakeholders & Speakers
The event was chaired by the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala FNSE, represented by the NSE Kaduna Branch Chairman, Engr. Samson Arege Bawa MNSE.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), Dr. Mohammed Aminu Mohammed, emphasized that Nigeria’s automotive and locomotive sectors would only thrive on a foundation of skilled technicians and craftsmen. He proposed deeper collaboration between NABTEB and AutoEI in areas such as joint curriculum development and industry-driven skills assessment.
Focus on the Blue Economy & Green Energy
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the NADDC Director-General, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, the Director of Industrial Infrastructure Development, Dr. Nua Omisanya, described the blue economy as a vital frontier for Nigeria’s growth. He painted a picture of a future where Nigerian ports are serviced by electric trucks and zero-emission locomotives driving inland freight.
He noted ongoing nationwide promotion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) programmes and the development of automotive supplier parks in Kaduna, Osogbo, and Nnewi. He highlighted that the NADDC has successfully revitalized 34 operational vehicle assembly plants across Nigeria, creating 16,000 jobs.
Resolutions and Policy Recommendations
After days of technical sessions and panel discussions, the conference issued strong recommendations:
Revival of the Patronage Act: The government is urged to enforce the Patronage Act to support indigenous Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) rather than limiting Nigeria to a peripheral role in foreign-led structures.
Partnerships: Recommended partnerships between NABTEB, NADDC, NRC, NBTE, and relevant agencies to train and secure manpower under quality supervisory frameworks.
Legislative Support: The National Assembly was urged to expedite laws that will shield the industry from capital flight and technology gaps.
Highlights of the Event
One of the major highlights was the conferment of the Fellowship of the Institute (FAutoEI) on distinguished members for their contributions to the profession. Recipients included Engr. Ma'aruf Isyaku FNSE and Engr. Prof. A. A. Abba MNSE. An Honorary Fellowship was also conferred on Engr. Prof. A. S. Sambo.
The conference also featured technical visits to innovation hubs and industry partners within Zaria to deepen participants' exposure to emerging opportunities in the field.
Conclusion
Welcoming delegates earlier, the National Chairman of AutoEI, Engr. Sylvester A. Aye, PhD, FNSE, FAutoEI, acknowledged the impact of Nigeria’s tough economic realities but reaffirmed the Institute's resolve to harness opportunities in the sector for national growth.
The conference closed with a unified message: innovation, sustainability, and skills development are the fuel Nigeria must rely on to drive its automotive future and unlock the potentials of the blue economy.

AutoEI 15th National Conference: Engineers Task FG to Prioritize Indigenous Innovation for Nigeria & Blue Economy

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