Chandramouli Kern, the Consul General of India in Lagos, emphasized the crucial role of a thriving economy in improving the standard of living for citizens and empowering them to afford cars.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the three-day West Africa Automotive Show in Lagos, Kern addressed a diverse audience that included numerous Indian companies.
Kern highlighted the significant presence of the parent body of the automotive company manufacturing association, which brought over 20 of its members to the exhibition and several other Indian companies participated, signaling their keen interest in the Nigerian market.
Comparing India’s populous nature with that of Nigeria, Kern noted that economic development had led to diversification and increased disposable income among the population. This, in turn, had resulted in a rise in car ownership and frequent car replacements, providing ample opportunities for automotive companies to flourish.
Ngozi Emechebe, the President of the Auto Spare Parts & Machinery Dealers Association, Lagos State branch, expressed her optimism regarding the impact of auto shows in Lagos on the growth of her association’s business.
Emechebe pointed out that procuring visas for international travel posed challenges for members, but through exhibitions like this, they could directly engage with manufacturers and discuss areas of interest.
She emphasized the importance of nurturing relationships between Nigerian importers and manufacturers, with the ultimate goal of bringing more business opportunities to Nigeria.
The exhibition manager, Georgina Lloyd, shared that more than 156 exhibitors from around the world were participating in the automotive show. Nigeria was specifically chosen as the host country due to its economic advantages and other favorable factors.
Lloyd expressed her satisfaction with the growing global interest in the Nigerian market and pledged to work closely with the Auto Spare Parts & Machinery Dealers Association to ensure the exhibition becomes an annual event, attracting more companies from across the globe.
The West Africa Automotive Show in Lagos serves as a platform for industry stakeholders to converge, fostering partnerships, collaborations, and business growth. By providing a direct avenue for Nigerian importers to interact with manufacturers, the exhibition aims to bridge the gap between demand and supply, facilitating smoother trade and bolstering the automotive industry in the region.
The Consul General’s highlighting of economic growth’s positive impact on car ownership underscores the significant role that a thriving economy plays in transforming lives and creating opportunities. With the automotive show in Lagos acting as a catalyst for business growth and collaboration, the future of the Nigerian automotive industry appears promising, driven by both domestic demand and international interest.
