Theorising the Failure of Technological Innovation Diffusion in the Nigerian Automobile Industry: The Case of Ford Motors Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the impact of knowledge transfer in the Nigerian automobile industry. Attempts at technological transfer in the Nigeria automobile industry date back to 1962; between 1962 till date (2012), automobile technological diffusion was by direct transfer of technological knowledge through the establishments of assembly plants (including Volkswagen of Nigeria (VWON), Peugeot Automobile of Nigeria (PAN), STEYR Nigeria, Anambra motor company (ANAMCO) and Leyland Nigeria). These attempts failed as all the assembly plants are now (as at 2012) closed down. This study relying on the qualitative research methodology and employing narrative/discuss analyses, recommends diffusion of technology through the establishments of automobile industrial clusters, which was the route Malaysia and South Africa (both developing economies like Nigeria)  employed towards economic and industrial successes. The industrial cluster development will increase the engineering technological and innovation capability within the Nigerian automobile industry and make Nigeria to be competitive in the global automobile market.