The Senate on Thursday passed the Local Automobile Industry Patronage Bill, 2025, through its second reading stage.
The bill’s lead debate was presented by its sponsor, Senator Patrick Ndubueze (APC-Imo), who explained that it aims to make it compulsory for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to prioritise local manufacturers and indigenous companies in the procurement of goods and services.
“It also prohibits the exclusion of locally produced goods from procurement processes and addresses related matters,” he stated.
Ndubueze emphasised that any country aspiring for sustainable economic growth must support a framework that promotes domestic production.
“Producing goods and services locally results in reduced imports and increased exports, thereby improving the balance of trade,” he said.
He criticised Nigeria’s long-standing neglect of indigenous brands and services in favour of foreign products, which, he argued, are not necessarily of superior quality.
*“This failure is reflected in our struggling economy. The fluctuating value of the naira and rising inflation are clear symptoms.
“To reverse this trend, Nigeria must adopt a long-term policy to support made-in-Nigeria automobiles,”* he asserted.
He noted that imported vehicles account for significant foreign exchange outflow, and both the public and civil service sectors spend heavily on foreign automobiles.
Ndubueze maintained that supporting local automobile manufacturing is crucial to economic recovery.
“Rescuing the naira must begin with adopting sustainable economic practices, starting with institutionalising the purchase of made-in-Nigeria vehicles,” he added.
In support of the bill, Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Monguno, argued that patronising Nigerian-made goods would stimulate industrial growth, generate employment, and increase the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“Mr President, about a week ago, the Federal Executive Council passed a resolution directing all MDAs to patronise made-in-Nigeria goods.
“This bill seeks to provide a legal framework to support that resolution, rather than leaving it as an executive order,” he said.
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, in his remarks, affirmed that embracing locally made vehicles would significantly contribute to national economic growth.
(NAN)