CALABAR — The Cross River State Government’s push to modernise and regulate the automotive sector has recorded major milestones within one year, as the Automobile Technicians Regulatory Department (ATRD) on Friday celebrated its first anniversary with industry stakeholders, security agencies, and technical experts in attendance NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
Speaking at the event held at the Shettima Hall, State Library Complex, Calabar, the Special Adviser to the Governor on ATRD, Chief Ndem Effiong, said the department had made “unprecedented progress” in formalising and institutionalising the state’s automotive ecosystem in line with Governor Bassey Otu’s People First agenda.
Chief Effiong recalled that upon assuming office in November 2024, he received operational mandates from the State Planning Commission, enabling the ATRD to commence full regulatory operations. “The ATRD was charged with the responsibility of regulating, formalising, and institutionalising the automotive industry in Cross River State. In one year, we have laid a solid foundation for growth,” he said.
He attributed the department’s progress to the “visionary leadership” of Governor Otu, noting ongoing partnerships with the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and strong support from security agencies including the Police, NSCDC, NDLEA, DSS and FRSC.
Training Centre and EV Charging Projects Underway
Chief Effiong announced that construction work has reached advanced stages at the Automobile Training Centre (ATC) located at the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Awi, Akamkpa LGA. The facility is expected to serve as a hub for capacity building, mechatronics training, and modern automotive diagnostics.
He also disclosed that the state is constructing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations at the University of Calabar, describing them as critical infrastructure for the future of mobility.
“These projects have enormous significance for capacity building and enhanced mobility. They hold high potential for value addition to the rural economy of Cross River State,” Effiong said.
ATRD Unveils Magazine, New Vehicle Brand
Friday’s anniversary also featured the unveiling of the ATRD’s maiden magazine, which documents sector reforms, and the showcasing of a new automobile brand brought into the state by Carloha Motors.
Stakeholders at the event—including technicians, automotive guilds, insurers and academic representatives—praised the department for elevating technicians from “roadside mechanics” to recognised professionals.
Women Technicians, FRSC, and Guild Leaders Hail Progress
The Female Automobile Technicians Association (FATA) highlighted the growing inclusion of women in the sector, while calling for government support in training, workshop tools and subsidised spare parts.
The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Innocent Etuk, commended the ATRD for improving vehicle maintenance standards, which he said would boost roadworthiness and reduce crashes.
Similarly, the Guild of Automobile and Allied Technicians of Nigeria (GATAN) praised the state government for “structural transformation,” noting that Cross River is gradually positioning itself as a hub for modern automotive services.
Cross River Eyes Hosting of WAAS 2027
Chief Effiong appealed to the governor to support the mobilisation of technicians for the 2026 West African Automotive Show (WAAS) in Lagos, describing the event as an opportunity to attract investors and expose technicians to modern automotive technology.
He said attending the 2026 edition could strengthen Cross River’s bid to host the 2027 edition of the major continental automotive exhibition.
‘Season of Sweetness’ in the Automotive Ecosystem
Effiong concluded by expressing gratitude to Governor Otu for charting a new course for the sector. “This one-year journey is historic. It signals a new dawn for regulation, innovation and professionalism in Cross River State’s automotive industry,” he said.
The event drew participants from the University of Cross River State, private sector operators, automotive guilds, women technicians, and representatives of various government agencies.
