NEDDI PARTNERS WITH NICOL & PARTNERS TO REVOLUTIONIZE SPARE PARTS PRODUCTION

The National Engineering Design Development Institute (NEDDI), Nnewi, is making significant strides toward its transformation from a research and development (R&D) institution into a hub for producing market-ready, commercializable products. In line with this vision, NEDDI recently engaged Nicol & Partners Nigeria Limited, a prominent player in the motorcycle spare parts industry, to explore collaboration opportunities aimed at boosting local manufacturing and reducing import dependency.

During a high-level visit to NEDDI, Mr. Chinaweze Nichole Obiora, Managing Director of Nicol & Partners, was welcomed by senior officials who emphasized the institute’s alignment with the commercialization directive of NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu. This directive is encapsulated in the “3Cs” formula—Creation, Collaboration, and Commercialization—an approach designed to translate NEDDI’s technological innovations into impactful, marketable solutions.

Dr. Icheke, Head of Manufacturing Services, highlighted the paradigm shift underway at the institute. “NEDDI is no longer content with being solely an R&D entity. We are now focused on bridging the gap between innovation and commercialization, ensuring that our products serve both local and global markets,” he said. He noted that the collaboration with Nicol & Partners exemplifies this new direction, with the potential to position Nigeria as a leader in the spare parts manufacturing sector.

Mr. Obiora, a seasoned entrepreneur with a track record dating back to 1995, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, reflecting on a past collaboration where NEDDI resolved a technical fault in imported tricycle pistons. “The technical expertise I see here is a game-changer. This partnership can revolutionize the spare parts industry and drive significant economic growth,” he remarked.

Despite his optimism, Mr. Obiora also raised concerns about Nigeria’s unstable policies, which he argued often discourage long-term business investments. He offered strategic advice on how to navigate these challenges, emphasizing the need for robust frameworks to ensure the sustainability and success of the partnership.

In response, NEDDI’s management assured him of their commitment to protecting his interests through legal agreements and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The institute also reiterated its alignment with the federal government’s economic transformation agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes industrialization, local production, and reduced reliance on imports.

Mrs. Regina Uzoma Egwuonwu, the Overseeing Officer, expressed gratitude to Mr. Obiora for his willingness to collaborate with the institute. She assured him of NEDDI’s dedication to fostering a mutually beneficial partnership. “This collaboration is pivotal to achieving our vision of driving industrial growth and enhancing Nigeria’s self-reliance through innovation,” she said.

The visit culminated in a tour of NEDDI’s state-of-the-art engineering and manufacturing facilities, where Mr. Obiora observed the institute’s capabilities firsthand. Impressed by the facilities and expertise, he pledged to provide all necessary business support to fast-track the partnership’s objectives.

NEDDI’s proactive engagement with private-sector stakeholders like Nicol & Partners signals a bold commitment to moving beyond R&D and positioning itself as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s industrialization efforts. Through such collaborations, the institute aims to turn its innovations into commercially viable products, contributing to the nation’s economic growth and self-reliance.

Amen Lawani and Amuta Grace C.

INP Unit

NEDDI, Nnewi