A group of auto dealers in Nigeria has announced the formation of a new association to transform the automobile trading industry in the country. The association, named the Automobile Dealers Association of Nigeria (ADAN), was launched on Monday in Lagos, with the aim of promoting the interests of its members and the development of the sector.
The association said it would work with the government and other stakeholders to address the challenges facing the industry, such as high import duties, smuggling, lack of access to finance, and poor infrastructure. It also said it would advocate for the implementation of the National Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP), which was introduced in 2013 to boost local production and reduce dependence on imports.
The association’s president, Mr. Olusegun Oyebanji, said the association was born out of the need to have a unified voice for the auto dealers, who contribute significantly to the economy and employment. He said the association would also seek to improve the quality and standards of the vehicles sold in the country, as well as the professionalism and ethics of the dealers.
The association plans to partner with local and foreign manufacturers to create more value
The association said it would partner with local and foreign manufacturers to create more value for the customers and the economy. It said it would encourage its members to invest in assembling and manufacturing plants, as well as in after-sales services and spare parts.
The association said it would also explore the opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which came into effect in January 2021, to expand its market and enhance its competitiveness. It said it would leverage on the existing bilateral and multilateral agreements between Nigeria and other countries to facilitate trade and investment.
The association’s vice president, Mr. John Okeke, said the association would also engage in capacity building and training for its members and staff, to equip them with the skills and knowledge required for the industry. He said the association would also collaborate with relevant agencies and institutions to conduct research and development, as well as to monitor and evaluate the trends and dynamics of the industry.
The association seeks the support of the government and the public to achieve its vision
The association said it would seek the support of the government and the public to achieve its vision of transforming the automobile trading industry in Nigeria. It said it would engage in dialogue and consultation with the relevant authorities and regulators, to ensure a conducive and enabling environment for the industry.
The association also appealed to the public to patronize its members, who offer genuine and quality vehicles at competitive prices. It said it would ensure that its members adhere to the best practices and standards of the industry, and that they provide satisfactory and reliable services to the customers.
The association said it was open to all auto dealers in Nigeria, who share its vision and mission, and who are willing to abide by its rules and regulations. It said it would also welcome partnerships and collaborations with other associations and organizations, both locally and internationally, that have similar objectives and interests.
