NADDC DG Visits VC Ekiti State University; Harps on Advancement in Mechatronics Engineering.
On 11th July, 2025, the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, paid a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of Ekiti State University, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele.
During the visit, Mr. Osanipin highlighted the purpose of the engagement, noting that the University’s keen interest in engineering development, particularly in the field of mechatronics necessited the visit. He reiterated the Council’s commitment in partnering with institutions offering Mechatronics as a course, adding that Ekiti State University stood out as one of the few that expressed genuine interest in establishing a CNG conversion centre in line with the national CNG expansion progeamme.
“When we observed the University’s commitment to mechatronics and its drive for development in the automotive sector — especially with the rapid advancement of new technologies — we knew it was the right partner,” he said.
“We are intentional about partnering with institutions that show genuine interest because without that, understanding and cooperation may be lacking.” he explained.
He further explained that in response to the University’s proactive approach, NADDC decided to establish a dedicated centre on campus, equipped with both a CNG conversion facility and an electric vehicle (EV) charging station. He stressed the importance of exposing students to emerging automotive technologies such as CNG and EVs, so that graduates remain relevant in an industry that is rapidly evolving.
“We don’t want students to graduate and discover that the technologies they learned in school have become obsolete, that is why we are bringing the charging station here and ensuring they understand CNG conversion processes as well.” he emphasized.
Mr. Osanipin appreciated the University for accepting NADDC’s proposal and granting a sizable piece of land for the construction of the charging station.
In his response, Prof. Joseph Babatola Ayodele expressed deep gratitude to the Director-General for his unwavering commitment to propelling Nigeria’s automotive industry forward. On behalf of the Governor of Ekiti State, the Chancellor, and the University’s management, he praised the Director General’s innovative ideas— describing him as a true son of the soil — for driving this transformative initiative not only in Ekiti State but across the country.
He enunciated that the collaboration would ensure students receive relevant, practical training that aligns with the evolving dynamics of modern automotive technologies, thereby equipping them to thrive in the industry after graduation.
