LCCI outlines strategies for increased women inclusion into auto manufacturing

Key implementable strategies for more women inclusion into auto manufacturing occupied the front at the one-day symposium organised this week by the Automobile & Allied Sub-Sectoral Group in collaboration with the Women Grroup and LPG & Natural Gas Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry with the theme; “From Tokunbo to Manufacturing: The Role of Women Breaking Barriers and Driving Growth”.

In his opening remarks, Gabriel Idahosa president and chairman of Council, Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI)
while describing the event as both timely and significant stated that, it highlights the transformative journey of the automotive industry and the pivotal role women play in its evolution, particularly in the context of Nigeria’s economic landscape.

The LCCI boss said that, to cultivate a more inclusive and dynamic automotive industry, several strategies should be implemented, such as deliberate establishment of mentorship programs that can provide guidance and support for women navigating their careers in the automotive sector.

Sponsorships can also be crucial in advancing women’s careers by providing opportunities for growth and exposure. More importantly, companies should actively promote diversity and inclusion within their corporate culture. Creating an environment that acknowledges diverse perspectives can enhance innovation and employee satisfaction.

Idahosa noted that, encouraging young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields can expand the pipeline of female talent into the automotive industry.

Initiatives like the Red Bull STEMx program aim to inspire more women to enter motorsport engineering roles. Acknowledging and celebrating the achievements of women in the automotive industry can inspire others and foster a culture of recognition. For example, the Women in Supply Chain Award honours female leaders whose accomplishments and mentorship set a foundation for women in the sector.

Globally, women have been instrumental in shaping the automotive industry, contributing to various facets from design and engineering to leadership and entrepreneurship.

“As of 2020, women comprised approximately 23.6% of the automotive manufacturing workforce in the United States. While this indicates progress, it also underscores the underrepresentation of women in the sector, especially in Nigeria”. Idahosa said.

Women like Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, have demonstrated exceptional leadership, steering the company toward innovation and profitability. Her tenure exemplifies the impact of female leadership in the automotive sector. In Nigeria, women’s participation in the automotive industry is growing. Organizations such as the Women Automotive Network (WAN) are active, providing professional growth and networking platforms, thereby fostering greater inclusion.

Despite the advancements, women in the automotive industry encounter several challenges, such as the automotive sector being traditionally male-dominated. In 2019, women held only 23.6% of U.S. motor vehicles and equipment manufacturing industry jobs.

Women are under represented in leadership roles within the industry. A 2020 study revealed that women comprised about 13% of the total workforce in the UK automotive sector, highlighting the need for increased representation.

Retaining women in the automotive industry poses a challenge. A survey by Deloitte indicated that 40% of women would choose to work in a different industry if they were to start their careers again, citing a lack of diversity, equity, and inclusion as primary factors.

The Nigerian automotive sector has undergone remarkable changes, transitioning from the dominance of used vehicle imports, commonly referred to as ‘Tokunbo,’ to a focus on local manufacturing. This shift has been propelled by economic policies to foster industrialization and reduce import dependence.

In the past, Nigeria’s automotive market was heavily reliant on imported used vehicles. However, recognizing the economic and strategic benefits of local manufacturing, the government introduced initiatives to bolster domestic production.

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has been instrumental in promoting local auto manufacturing. Policies such as the Automotive Industry Development Plan (AIDP) offer incentives to manufacturers, leading to increased investment in local production facilities.

These initiatives have attracted global automotive companies to establish manufacturing plants in Nigeria. For instance, in 2022, Peugeot inaugurated its assembly plant in Kaduna under a new management, signaling a significant milestone in local automotive production.

In the LPG and downstream natural gas sector, women’s involvement is increasingly significant for emphasis; women are actively engaged in operations, from engineering to management.

Their contributions are vital to the efficiency and innovation within the sector. Women entrepreneurs are establishing successful businesses in this field, driving growth and introducing new perspectives to the industry.

Women in leadership positions advocate for sustainable practices and influence policy decisions, contributing to the sector’s evolution and environmental responsibility.

The journey from ‘Tokunbo’ to local auto manufacturing in Nigeria’s automotive industry signifies substantial economic progress. Women have been and continue to be instrumental in this transformation, breaking barriers and driving growth.

However, to fully realize the potential of women’s contributions, concerted efforts must be made to address existing challenges and promote inclusivity.

The automotive industry can become a more equitable and dynamic field by implementing strategic initiatives focused on mentorship, diversity, education, and recognition.

The success stories of women in automotive and allied sectors serve as inspiration and a call to action for continued advancement and support.

With the transition to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for mobility in Nigeria, we urge key stakeholders in the automotive industry to be equipped to explore the emerging opportunities in e-mobility and CNG-powered vehicular transportation in Nigeria.

Let us commit to fostering an environment that not only welcomes but also celebrates the invaluable contributions of women in the automotive industry, propelling it towards a future marked by innovation, inclusivity, and sustained growth.

MIKE OCHONMA
Editor