 |
Ukorebi Esien | December 6, 2025
CALABAR — The Cross River State Automobile Technicians Regulatory Department (ATRD) has announced plans to accelerate the formalisation, regulation and standardisation of the automotive industry in Cross River State beginning in 2026. The commitment was reaffirmed on Friday during the department's first anniversary celebration and symposium held at the Kashim Shettima Hall, State Library Complex, Calabar.
The event, which drew technicians, spare-parts dealers, security agencies, government officials and stakeholders across the automotive value chain, highlighted the milestones recorded within ATRD's inaugural year and set clear policy directions for the coming phase of reforms.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on ATRD, Chief Ndem Effiong, said the department has completed its foundational work and is now transitioning into full enforcement, compliance monitoring, industry mapping and the establishment of uniform professional standards.
He noted that ATRD was created by Governor Bassey Otu's administration to regulate and professionalise the sector, which plays a crucial role in transportation, public safety and the state's informal economy.
"The year 2026 will mark a decisive shift. We will strengthen the registration of technicians, ensure compliance with operational standards, expand training opportunities and institutionalise quality control within the industry," Effiong stated.
In its one-year performance report, ATRD showcased key accomplishments, including:
Construction of an Automobile Training Centre (ATC) at the University of Education and Entrepreneurship (UEE), Awi-Akamkpa.
The facility is designed to train, certify and upskill thousands of automotive technicians.
Establishment of a CNG and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging point at the University of Calabar (UNICAL), positioning Cross River among early movers in Nigeria's shift towards cleaner and modern mobility.
Registration of technicians and ongoing development of a statewide automotive database.
Deepened collaboration with the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) to align state policies with national automotive sector reforms.
Effiong described these achievements as foundational investments that will support large-scale regulation and compliance activities beginning next year.
In their separate speeches, representatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police, DSS, NSCDC and other agencies commended ATRD for its commitment to safety and professionalism.
FRSC officials noted that standardising workshops and technicians is critical to reducing road crashes linked to poor vehicle maintenance.
The symposium also recognised the contributions of mechanics, panel beaters, auto-electricians, welders, vulcanizers, painters, motor dealers and spare-parts traders whose work sustains the mobility and logistics sectors in the state.
ATRD disclosed that 2026 activities will include:
* Full activation of the Automobile Training Centre for certification programmes
* Mandatory registration and categorisation of automotive workshops
* Enforcement of environmental, safety and operational standards
* Collaboration with security agencies to curb auto-related crimes
* Strengthening of partnerships with academic and technical institutions
* Improved access to modern tools, technology and alternative-fuel vehicle knowledge
Effiong also appealed for government support to enable wider participation of Cross River stakeholders in the West Africa Automotive Show (WAAS) 2026, describing it as a strategic gateway for partnerships, investments and innovation.
0 comments: