From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima, at the weekend, met with the MD/CEO of ROXETTES MOTORS, Kaycee Orji, where the latter outlined transformative initiatives aimed at advancing the country’s automotive sector through electric and compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles.
The discussions centred on enhancing Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure and fostering economic growth via electric and CNG-powered vehicles.
Orji emphasised the company’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting local manufacturing. “Our vision is to position Nigeria as a global leader in renewable energy and sustainable transportation,” he stated, highlighting the importance of leveraging local talent to create innovative solutions.
Orji highlighted the company’s plans to establish a vehicle assembly plant in Obuaku City, Abia State, capable of producing 40,000 units annually. “We are creating a thriving industrial hub that will not only boost local production but also create over 1,000 jobs,” he stated, emphasising the importance of local manufacturing in reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imports.
He said the assembly plant will focus on both electric and CNG vehicles, aligning with global sustainability trends.
Orji noted that 70% of the production will be dedicated to innovative products. He also announced plans for a CNG conversion facility, allowing existing vehicles to transition to cleaner energy sources.
“Energy transition is an opportunity for Nigeria to lead in sustainable development,” he asserted.
In addition to vehicle production, the ROXETTES MOTORS boss said the company aims to establish an automotive university dedicated to renewable energy and electric vehicle technology, fostering job creation and capacity building in the region. He added that the initiative is expected to provide skilled roles in manufacturing and technology.
As the assembly plant nears completion, Orji expressed gratitude for the support from the Abia State government, highlighting the peaceful business environment fostered by Governor Alex Otti, noting that everything the governor promised has been fulfilled, reinforcing the collaborative spirit necessary for national development.
He further noted that the initiative marks a significant step towards transforming Nigeria’s automotive industry into a sustainable powerhouse, with ROXETTES MOTORS leading the charge in innovative vehicle production and green technology solutions.
According to him, the meeting with the Vice President marks a significant stride towards transforming Nigeria’s automotive sector into one that prioritises sustainability and innovation.
Orji concluded, “At ROXETTES MOTORS, we are not just building vehicles; we are building a future where technology drives economic transformation.”
The Vice President expressed enthusiasm for these innovations, recognising their potential to revolutionise urban mobility.
Shettima commended ROXETTES MOTORS for its forward-thinking approach, stating, “Local businesses like ROXETTES are vital for economic diversification.” He called for further support for initiatives that promote local production and reduce import dependence.