Calabar – Cross River state is positioning itself as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s automotive technology sector with a series of transformative projects unveiled during the Annual Lecture and Excellence Awards of the Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association (NATA), Cross River State Council. The event, held on Thursday (19th December) at the Diamond Hall of the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar, brought together industry practitioners and leaders, government officials, and stakeholders to discuss the theme: Shaping the Future of Automotive Technology in Cross River state NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Bong Duke, Vice Chairman and CEO of the Cross River State Planning Commission, highlighted the global shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), smart mobility, and sustainable energy in the automotive industry. He emphasized that Cross River state is uniquely positioned to lead this revolution, leveraging its strategic location, natural resources, and a youthful, tech-savvy population.
“Our vision is to establish a thriving ecosystem for automotive technology that drives economic growth, empowers local talent, fosters innovation, and ensures sustainability,” Dr. Duke stated. He announced several initiatives, including the development of an Automotive Technology Park, the rollout of EV charging stations in urban centers, and partnerships with universities to offer specialized automotive engineering courses.
Dr. Duke also called on investors, educators, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to collaborate in achieving this ambitious vision, promising incentives like tax breaks and grants to attract businesses and research institutions to the state.
Dr. Duke concluded his keynote address by observing that, “Together, we can harness the power of innovation to build a future where mobility is smarter, transportation is greener, and opportunities are boundless.”
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the N1 billion Ultra-Modern Automobile Technicians City, described as a milestone project to enhance skills development and service delivery in the automotive sector. Chief Ndem Effiong, Special Adviser on the Automobile Technicians Regulatory Department, commended the Cross River State Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, for his visionary leadership and unwavering support for the initiative.
“This AutoTech City is a testament to our administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for growth in the automobile technician industry,” Effiong said. He outlined the government’s policy direction, which focuses on regulation, training, licensing, and compliance to ensure professionalism, public safety, and economic growth.
Effiong further highlighted plans to partner with security agencies and stakeholders to implement these objectives effectively, ensuring consumer protection and environmental sustainability.
The event also served as an opportunity for reflection and recognition. NATA Cross River Chairman, John Ayabie, applauded the association’s achievements while expressing optimism for the future. “The launch of this Ultra-Modern Automobile Technician City is a testament to our commitment to providing facilities and training for our members. This project will enhance skills development, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in Cross River State,” Ayabie said.
He thanked the guests for their support and urged NATA members to strive for excellence as they continue to contribute to the state’s burgeoning automotive industry.
