Navigating Nigeria's Digital Vehicle Shift: Uncovering Training Needs for a New Generation of Automobile Technicians.

Abstract

The era of digital vehicle revolution is rapidly spreading globally and Nigeria is not left out. This reality has necessitated the need to upgrade the skills of auto-technicians. Unfortunately, many automobile technicians in Nigeria are neither literate nor prepared for the swiftly evolving auto technology landscapes. This study aimed to uncover the training needs of Nigeria’s automobile technicians, identify the specific technical skills they required, and appropriate training programmes designed to address the skills gap among automobile technicians in Nigeria. The paper explores secondary sources of data to build a robust argument in favour of the existing gap in the skills and competence of Nigerian automobile technicians. Findings from existing literature revealed that Nigerian auto-technicians will need to go through training and re-training sessions. In conclusion, this study highlights a deeper deficit in training needs and outlines a training guide to mitigate such a gap. The study therefore recommended that auto technicians should collaborate with IT and computer experts to enhance their effectiveness. It was also recommended that the government provide well-equipped auto digital laboratories with trained trainers in each senatorial district in the country to provide competency training for auto technicians training. Also, the Government should reduce taxes on imported digital maintenance technologies, tools and equipment, this will reduce costs and encourage mass adoption. Furthermore, low-interest loans should be provided to the technicians to purchase modern maintenance tools and equipment lastly Auto industries should also partner with auto technicians’ associations to provide them with insight into the latest technologies used in the industries.