Establishment and Early Years (1999-2004)

NEDDI, initially known as the National Engineering Design Development Centre (NEDDEC), was established and commissioned on May 14, 1999, by Maj-Gen. Sam Moumah (rtd), the then Honorable Minister of Science and Technology. The centre was set up to incorporate engineering design principles into the operations of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to accelerate the manufacturing of quality goods and services in Nigeria. Nnewi was chosen as the location due to its significant industrial activities, earning it the nickname ‘Japan of Africa.’

Skeletal operations began in 2001, led by Engr. Abdulmaliki Onuwe (now Prof. Abdulmaliki Onuwe) from NASENI Headquarters. Initially housed in Nnofo Town Hall, Prof. Onuwe established a foundry workshop, recruited local technicians and technologists, and initiated several projects. He also negotiated for a permanent site, leading to the donation of land at No. 1-3 Emma-Biu Street, Okpuno-Egbu, Umudim, Nnewi, with an area of about 5,000 m².

Growth and Development under Engr. Dr. Steve O. Momoh (2004-2012)

In June 2004, Engr. Dr. Steve O. Momoh became the substantive Director/CEO, significantly advancing the centre’s operations. By 2006, NEDDEC was upgraded to an institute. Dr. Momoh addressed manpower shortages, increasing technical staff from 3 to a robust team, including 65 university graduate engineers and additional technologists, technicians, and scientists.

Leadership under Engr. David Dania (2012-2015)

Engr. David Dania served as the acting head starting in June 2012, focusing on capacity building through local and international training. Notable achievements during his tenure included:

• Completion of the NASENI M1 Motorcycle.
• Development of the NASENI T1 and T2 Tricycle Passenger and Cargo.
• Increased staff training and development, leading to several awards and commendations.

The duo of Engr. Dr. Ebhota Williams and Dr. Mr. Okeke Cecilia also headed NEDDI at different times. Though short as the duration may be, their contributions to the development of NEDDI cannot be over-emphasized. They spear-headed massive development and rapid transformation in NEDDI.

Leadership under Engr. Dr. Arinze W. Nwosu (2015-present)

In June 2015, Engr. Dr. Arinze Walter Nwosu was appointed Managing Director/CEO. He prioritized workforce competency, capacity building, and infrastructure development despite limited funding. Key initiatives included:

• Comprehensive local and international training programs for staff.
• Training in robotics, autonomous vehicles, industrial automation, battery and renewable energy, human resource management, artificial intelligence, procurement, and ICT.
• Participation in electrical transformer manufacturing training in China and planned training for solar panel design and manufacturing (delayed due to COVID-19).

Current Leadership under Mrs. Egwuonwu R.U

NEDDI is currently under the leadership of an astute and experienced accountant, dynamic administrator, and capable resources manager whose interest in the development of NEDDI remains unparalleled in the annals of NEDDI.

NEDDI continues to advance its mission of developing human capacity in engineering, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.