Ford releases its first built-in-Nigeria car
11:00
Ford Motor Company on Tuesday unveiled the first Ranger truck to be assembled in Nigeria. The Ranger trucks will be built in an existing facility belonging to Ford’s Nigerian partners, Coscharis Group.
At the official announcement of the Ford assembly line in Lagos, its President/CEO, sub-Saharan African Region, Mr Jeff Nemeth said Nigeria remains a significant market in Ford’s sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) region and accounts for a high per cent of the regional sales.
Nemeth said the new Nigerian plant will accommodate one shift and will produce an initial 10 units per day for the market, creating approximately 180 direct and indirect jobs for Nigerians, adding that over time, there will be expansion.
He emphasized that there would be positive knock-on effects in the Nigerian economy and work force with the introduction of the new assembly operations, even on a small scale. He added that Ford will send experienced employees to the country to assist with implementing the Global Ford Production System, which focuses on the highest standards for safety, quality and delivery.
Nemeth also said Ford has taken steps to support its dealers in Africa, including after-sales support and ensuring availability of spare parts. “In addition, we are looking at training and skills transfer opportunities to enhance the continent’s skills base. In Nigeria, this includes a training programme co-ordinated by Coscharis Motors and the Lagos State government including hands-on modules for technicians,” he said.
He said as part of Ford’s growth and ability to service its customers, Nigeria is already home to one quick lane facility in Lagos, with two others planned for Calabar and Ekiti next year. Quick Lane Centres are an initiative of Ford Motor Company, with facilities that offer motorists the option of having professional maintenance performed for minor service items in the shortest time regardless of their vehicle’s brand.
