**Local Production Boost: NADDC Launches Import-Deletion Programme for Motorcycle, Tricycle Parts** In a bid to promote local manufacturing, create jobs, and conserve foreign exchange, the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has initiated a far-reaching import-deletion programme targeting motorcycle and tricycle components. This move aims to transform Nigeria's automotive sector and stimulate economic growth. At a stakeholders' meeting in Lagos, the Director-General of NADDC, Oluwemimo, revealed that the council has identified numerous components that can be locally produced, including tyres, batteries, and plastics. By removing these items from the import list, NADDC hopes to encourage local manufacturers to take up the challenge, creating employment opportunities and adding value to the supply chain. This, in turn, will reduce pressure on the country's foreign exchange reserves. The programme is off to a promising start, with some local firms already demonstrating their capacity to produce specialized plastic parts for motorcycles and tricycles. One company, for instance, can manufacture up to 30,000 lead-acid batteries monthly. These achievements are a testament to Nigeria's potential for local production, which, when harnessed, can lead to significant economic benefits. However, industry experts have identified policy inconsistencies and low production volumes as major hurdles to the success of previous deletion programmes. The Executive Director of the Motorcycle Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Lambert Ekewuba, emphasized the need for harmonized tariffs on raw materials and a stable policy environment to encourage investment. With a massive market of over five million motorcycles and three million tricycles, Nigeria has the potential to become a major player in the production of motorcycle and tricycle parts. As NADDC pushes forward with its import-deletion programme, it is crucial that the government provides a supportive environment for local manufacturers to thrive. By doing so, Nigeria can achieve its goal of reducing reliance on imported parts, creating jobs, and conserving foreign exchange. The success of this programme will ultimately depend on the ability of local manufacturers to rise to the challenge and meet the demands of the market.