Industry experts have emphasized the critical necessity of addressing the current surge of substandard spare parts infiltrating the Nigerian automobile sector. These experts assert that counterfeit components not only imperil vehicle safety but also corrode consumer confidence in the authenticity of automotive products.

According to data from the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, a staggering 95 percent of auto spare parts imported into the country fail to meet the minimum acceptable standards. Yusuf Adah, Chairman of Automedics Motor International, expressed grave concern regarding this issue, attributing the influx of substandard vehicle spare parts to dealers and importers.

Adah pointed out the lack of commitment to excellence and integrity among unscrupulous elements within the industry, making it a formidable challenge to combat this problem effectively. He underscored the significance of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), acknowledging that while they may come with a higher price tag, their durability and reliability over time make them a wise investment.

Adah commented, “Car owners have multiple options at their disposal, but distinguishing between OEM and substandard spare parts is relatively straightforward. Despite the seemingly insurmountable nature of this issue, combating this menace remains a top priority.”

Furthermore, Adah decried the dissatisfaction of customers and the dearth of skilled talents within the automobile sector. He stressed that addressing these challenges necessitates collective efforts to enhance the overall health of the Nigerian auto industry.

In an exclusive conversation with The PUNCH, Pankaj Bohhra, Chief Operating Officer of Fixit45, added, “From our experience, we’ve witnessed challenges concerning the quality of work performed, with a major pain point being the availability, pricing, and sourcing of the right spare parts. The quality of parts used in our workshops directly impacts a vehicle’s longevity and efficiency, reducing claims and enhancing overall performance.”

Bohhra also highlighted skill gaps among automotive professionals, subpar repair practices, and limited access to essential infrastructure as additional hurdles plaguing the sector.

The Nigeria Customs Service, a pivotal agency overseeing imports and exports, has emphasized the imperative need for collaboration among stakeholders to combat smuggling, which has fueled the influx of counterfeit automotive spare parts into the country. In a document titled “Enhancing the Role of Nigeria Customs Service and Fostering Collaborative Efforts with Stakeholders to Prevent the Inflow of Substandard or Counterfeit Spare Parts,” the agency has outlined the formidable obstacles encountered in curbing smuggling.