Just-In-Time Implementation Feasibility Study for an Automobile Assembly Plant in Kaduna State

This project examines the feasibility of implementing Just-In-Time manufacturing principles in an automobile assembly plant in Kaduna State, North West Nigeria. Just-In-Time is a widely adopted production management philosophy aimed at eliminating inventory waste and aligning production closely with customer demand; however, its successful implementation depends on supply chain reliability, supplier proximity, and production process standardisation, all of which present unique challenges in the Nigerian context. This feasibility study employs a structured assessment framework encompassing supplier readiness evaluation, infrastructure suitability analysis, workforce capability assessment, and financial cost-benefit analysis. Data were gathered through management interviews, supplier questionnaires, and review of procurement and production records over a ten-week study period. Findings reveal that while the assembly plant's internal processes demonstrate adequate process standardisation for JIT adoption, supplier lead time variability and poor road infrastructure connecting key component suppliers to the plant represent critical barriers. A phased implementation roadmap is proposed, beginning with internal pull-system introduction and vendor development programmes for three high-priority component categories. Financial analysis indicates a positive net present value for the proposed phased approach over a five-year horizon under conservative assumptions. Keywords: Just-In-Time, automobile assembly, feasibility study, Kaduna State, supply chain