The Federal Government has directed ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to procure vehicles from only licensed automobile assemblers operating in Nigeria.
The directive, under the Nigeria First Policy, requires government agencies seeking to purchase foreign-assembled vehicles to obtain presidential approval.
The Nigeria First Policy was approved by the Federal Executive Council in May 2025 as part of the government’s broader strategy to promote local production and give Nigerian businesses greater access to public procurement opportunities.
The policy is designed to prioritise locally manufactured and assembled products in government procurement and support businesses operating within Nigeria.
Under the new framework, the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) is expected to verify vehicle identification numbers (VINs) to ensure compliance with the directive.
The government says the initiative will stimulate investment in Nigeria’s automotive industry, support local manufacturers, create employment opportunities and strengthen domestic supply chains.
