Abuja — In view of the dwindling fortunes of Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (PAN), the Federal Government of Nigeria has promised to do everything within its power to ensure the survival of the auto company, even in the face of current economic downturn.

It also noted that the country's automotive industry was going through difficult times, adding that it was fully aware of the specific problems of PAN and those of allied auto industries in the country.

The indications were given by the Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Ms Josephine Tapgun, in the address delivered during her recent visit to PAN Nigeria Ltd, Kaduna.

She also said that as part of efforts to revive the ailing industry, a presidential committee was set up under her chairmanship to come up with viable policy options, aimed at reviving the auto industry, disclosing that the committee had since submitted its report to the appropriate authority.

The minister stated: "Government will, in turn, do whatever is necessary to ensure that PAN Nigeria Ltd survives this downturn and continues to produce motor vehicles for Nigerian users. The automotive industry in Nigeria is, no doubt, going through difficult times.

"Government is fully aware of the specific problems of PAN, and by extension, those of allied auto industries in Nigeria. That is why a presidential committee, under my chairmanship was set up to come up with viable policy options that would revive the automobile industry.

"The committee has submitted its report to the government and is receiving due attention. We are confident that government will approve these recommendations to reposition the Nigerian automotive industry and start its revival."

While commending the courage and commitment of the new owners of PAN Nigeria Ltd in investing in the manufacturing industry, in spite of the difficult times, Tapgun reaffirmed that the ministry of commerce and industry was already championing the campaign for patronage of made-in-Nigeria products.

She added that the relevant government circular that would enforce compliance or patronage by individuals at the three-tiers of government, was underway.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Managing Director and Chief Executive, PAN Nigeria Ltd, Alhaji Shehu Sani Daura, explained that the company had commenced the operation of business models geared towards transforming the company into a leading automobile manufacturer in Africa, through the promotion of human and material capacities.

"We are operating business models that seek to turn-around the company as the leading automobile manufacturer in Africa. In doing this, we are vigorously enhancing our human and material capacities to effectively proffer solutions to the mobility needs of our teeming population and the West African region."