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Nigerians are set to face more hardship from the Bola Tinubu-led government as cost of vehicles is expected to rise following his administration move to gradually phase out the importation of used, popularly known as Tokunbo, vehicles in the country.
In a report by Punch, the government’s position was disclosed at the 18th Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) International Auto Awards held in Lagos.
At the event, the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, said fresh policies are now being deployed to discourage continued dependence on imported used vehicles.
Osanipin explained that the phased withdrawal of Tokunbo vehicles would be accompanied by stricter quality controls on automobiles entering Nigeria.
He described the move as part of a broader strategy to boost local manufacturing, improve road safety, and drive industrial growth.
He further disclosed that the long-awaited National Auto Industry Development Policy (NAIDP) is being pushed for enactment by the National Assembly.
He added that the Federal Government is targeting its passage by the second quarter of 2026 and has called for active stakeholder participation during public hearings.
The renewed policy push is also backed by the recent approval of the Nigeria Industry Policy by the Federal Executive Council and the rollout of the End-of-Life Vehicle Recycling Regulation.
However, industry watchers warn that the transition could increase transportation costs and deepen financial strain for many Nigerians.
