Nigeria is strategic to global automotive sector, says AAAM CEO

The Chief Executive Officer of the
African Association Of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM), Victoria Backhaus-Jerling, has described Nigeria as occupying a very strategic position in the global automotive sector.

She also described Africa as the world’s last automotive frontier, adding that Nigeria holds a powerful place in that future.
Making reference to Nigeria’s scale, talent and entrepreneurial spirit, Backhaus-Jerling explained that Nigeria has all the right ingredients to lead, emphasising that what is needed now is policy certainty to match that potential.

In a virtual goodwill message delivered during the 2nd Edition of the 2025 Nigeria Auto Industry Summit (NAISU), organised by Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) on Thursday, July 31, 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria, the AAAM CEO pointed out the need for Nigeria to legalise it’s automotive policy to provide the foundation for sustainable local manufacturing, job creation and boost investor’s confidence.

Part of her message read: “At AAAM, we work with governments and partners across the continent to enable policies and auto programmes, attract investment and unlock regional value chains under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“With our members from across Africa, the local industry and pan African partners we share the same vision for Africa to manufacture on the continent for the continent.

Weather it is the manufacturing of vehicles, components or the processing of minerals.

She declared that she do believe that every country can be part of an automotive value chain. It is the role of the governments with the support of the private industry to determine which role a country can play.

“Nigeria’s journey has already begun. But to realise its full potential, the industry needs legal backing – it needs the right policy to be implemented.

Victoria Backhaus-Jerling said she do believe that, the right regulatory framework will provide the foundation for sustainable local manufacturing, job creation and investor confidence.

“Without it, the sector remains vulnerable to unchecked used imports, and Nigeria risks missing out on the opportunities industrialisation can bring”.

“AAAM remains a committed partner to Nigeria”.

We have seen what is possible in countries like Morocco, Egypt, Ghana and South Africa and we believe Nigeria can go even further. Political will and decisive action will be the game changers.

“As you reflect over the course of this Summit, I encourage you to think boldly about what Nigeria’s automotive industry could look like in 10 years and what must be done today to unlock that vision”.

“Wishing you all a successful and impactful Summit. Let’s keep driving Africa forward, together”