The Federal Government has intensified its push for patronage of locally assembled vehicles, using the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival to showcase the capacity and resilience of Nigeria’s automotive industry through a cross-country motor rally.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony of the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival and Motor Rally in Abuja, Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First” policy, which encourages citizens and institutions to prioritise made-in-Nigeria goods.
Oduwole noted that all vehicles participating in the rally were assembled in Nigeria, describing the event as a practical demonstration of the ruggedness, technology and quality of locally produced automobiles.
“Nigeria First policy encourages all of us to patronise Nigeria-made products, and in automobiles, this is no different. That is why all the vehicles on display today are assembled in Nigeria,” she said.
According to her, the rally will see the vehicles traverse diverse terrains from Abuja through Kaduna to Kano; from Kano through Zamfara to Sokoto; and from Sokoto to Birnin Kebbi before terminating in Argungu, Kebbi State.
“We want to demonstrate the ruggedness and the technology available in locally assembled vehicles. Nigeria’s automobile industry has come of age, and we are proud to showcase this to the world,” she added.
The minister pledged the readiness of her ministry to collaborate with other ministries, departments and agencies willing to promote and patronise made-in-Nigeria products. She also commended the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Innovation for integrating the motor rally into the globally recognised cultural festival.
Describing the Argungu Festival as a cultural heritage event recognised by UNESCO, Oduwole applauded organisers for sustaining it over 61 editions and expressed optimism that subsequent editions would be even more impactful.
Also speaking, Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, said the motor rally, like the festival itself, symbolises the resilience of Nigerians and the country’s determination to sustain economic and cultural activities despite challenges.
He described the rally from Abuja to Argungu as a strong statement of confidence in Nigeria’s improving security architecture and economic prospects, noting that private sector participation underscores growing trust in government policies.
“The President has made it clear that we will support those who invest in Nigeria. The companies participating in this rally are assembling in Nigeria. They are our companies, and we will not be shy in supporting them,” Bagudu said.
He referenced recent policy decisions, including measures designed to support domestic refining and industrial growth, as evidence of the government’s commitment to backing investors who commit capital to the Nigerian economy.
Joseph Osanipin, Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), described the rally as a blend of culture, innovation and technology, noting that the automotive sector is increasingly intertwined with entertainment, tourism and economic development.
Osanipin said beyond celebrating culture, the rally serves as an economic driver with significant multiplier effects, generating employment opportunities in branding, logistics, media, hospitality and related services along the route.
“As the vehicles pass through different states and communities, they promote not only the automotive industry but also our culture and tourism potential. The rally itself is an industry,” he said.
He added that the council has been promoting motorsports and rally events across the country as part of efforts to deepen local automotive manufacturing, encourage public confidence in Nigeria-assembled vehicles and stimulate broader economic activity.
The motor rally is one of the highlights of the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, a historic event that attracts local and international tourists and showcases Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
