Lagos Motor Fair, Autoparts Expo to begin March 17, targeting Investment, Industry Growth

The 20th edition of the Lagos International Motor Fair and the 13th Africa Autoparts Expo is set to spotlight investment, technology transfer and industry collaboration as organisers intensify efforts to position Nigeria as a major automotive hub in West Africa.

The three-day event, which will also incorporate the Africa Motorcycle and Tricycle Expo, is scheduled to hold from March 17 to 19, 2026, at the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos.

Organisers said the upcoming edition would focus strongly on accelerating the development of the country’s automotive sector by creating platforms that connect global manufacturers with local industry players.

“Nigeria has all it takes to become a global automotive industry giant,” the organisers stated, noting that the fair remains a strategic contribution toward driving growth despite prevailing industry challenges.

Chairman of the Organising Committee, Ifeanyichukwu Agwu, said the exhibitions had over the years evolved into a key platform for attracting investment into automobile spare parts and accessories manufacturing while strengthening aftermarket activities across the region.

“We have consistently used these events to attract investment into auto components manufacturing and to showcase the enormous capacity and potential of this critical sector of the economy,” he said.

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Agwu, who also serves as Managing Director of BKG Exhibitions Limited, disclosed that the 2026 edition would place emphasis on business-to-business engagement between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and auto parts dealers from Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

According to him, the goal is to foster partnerships capable of leading to the establishment of component manufacturing plants locally.

He added that the exhibition is expected to support government policies aimed at building a sustainable automotive industry by stimulating the emergence of companies involved in component production.

Calling for policy adjustments, Agwu urged the Federal Government to prioritise spare parts and components manufacturing over vehicle assembly, arguing that deeper technology transfer and innovation occur within the components segment.

“Spare parts manufacturing is where real technology transfer occurs. It involves precision engineering, planning and innovation—far beyond the coupling processes involved in assembly,” he said, while also advocating a review of the existing automotive policy to better support local production.

Despite the challenges associated with hosting large-scale industry events, Agwu reaffirmed the organisers’ commitment to sustaining the platform, warning that neglecting the automotive sector could have far-reaching consequences for the economy and employment.

The organisers said more than 100 original components manufacturers from countries including China, India, South Korea, South Africa, Singapore and Turkey, alongside major automobile distribution and manufacturing companies operating in Nigeria, are expected to participate.

In addition to product exhibitions, the event will feature seminars and technical workshops focusing on policy, investment opportunities, technology transfer and industry best practices, with each day structured to deliver value to exhibitors, investors, policymakers and other stakeholders.

Lagos Motor Fair, Autoparts Expo to begin March 17, targeting Investment, Industry Growth

Versat rolls out rugged heavy-duty C&C U400 trucks for Nigerian roads 

Versat Automobile Limited has officially entered Nigeria’s commercial vehicle market, unveiling the C&C U400 heavy-duty truck range designed for demanding local operating conditions.

The launch, held on Friday, February 6, 2026, in Lekki, Lagos, marked the company’s first major step into the heavy-duty truck segment, with a focus on supporting logistics, construction, mining and infrastructure businesses with durable and value-driven transport solutions.

At the event, Versat showcased the C&C U400 series — a high-performance truck line known for its safety features, lightweight design and strong load-carrying capability.

The trucks are being introduced through a strategic partnership with global manufacturer C&C Trucks.

A representative of C&C Trucks, Mr. Jin Haibo, said at the grand unveiling that the collaboration would combine global engineering expertise with local market understanding.

“This partnership allows us to deliver globally proven truck technology adapted to Nigeria’s operating needs, supported by strong sales, service and spare parts infrastructure,” he said.

Established in 2024, Versat Automobile said its market entry is built around durability, performance and long-term value creation.

Non-Executive Director, Alhaji Francis Ogboro, described the launch as the beginning of a long-term commitment to supporting Nigerian businesses with dependable commercial vehicles.

“Our entry into the Nigerian market marks the start of a strategic drive to empower enterprises with dependable, high-performance commercial vehicles. Through Versat Automobile Ltd, we are introducing trucks built for Nigeria’s operating environment, backed by strong local support and designed to deliver sustainable value to our customers,” he said.

Executive Director, Mrs. Ebere Anenih, said the trucks were selected and engineered to suit local terrain and heavy-duty applications, noting that they combine strength, reliability and economic value for fleet owners.

Currently, the company’s lineup features the C&C U400 6×4 available in tractor head, dump truck and chassis configurations.

The model is powered by a 400-horsepower engine delivering up to 1,800Nm of torque, supported by a high-strength steel chassis, reinforced components, advanced cooling systems and fuel-efficient turbocharger technology aimed at reducing operating costs.

Head of Sales (Commercial Vehicles), Mr. Umoh Ekanem, highlighted the truck’s 90-tonne gross combination weight rating and driver-focused cabin design, which emphasises comfort and operational efficiency.

Beyond product performance, Versat Automobile places strong emphasis on after-sales support as a core pillar of its strategy.

The company announced plans for a growing nationwide service network, genuine spare parts availability, factory-trained technicians and structured maintenance programmes.

General Manager, After-sales, Mr. Ifeanyi Igbokwe, said the trucks would be backed by a comprehensive support system, including a two-year warranty covering critical components, aimed at minimising downtime and protecting customer investment.

According to the company, the introduction of the C&C U400 range signals its ambition to build a strong presence in Nigeria’s heavy-duty truck market while delivering transport solutions tailored to the realities of local business operations.

Chisco begins Yutong, Sinotruk assembly in Lagos, unveils 120 buses, trucks for Drive-To-Own franchise

Chisco Transport Limited has commenced the local assembly of Yutong luxury buses and Sinotruk trucks in Lagos, unveiling 80 buses and 40 trucks to power a new Drive-To-Own transport franchise aimed at expanding operations and strengthening fleet sustainability.

The company said the move would support the smooth rollout of its latest business model while boosting capacity across key passenger and logistics routes. The new assembly facility, located in Iponri, Surulere, also handles vehicles from other leading Chinese commercial brands, reinforcing Chisco’s ambition to deepen local automotive value chains.

Under the Drive-To-Own scheme, selected and trained captains will operate the vehicles based on agreed franchise terms, connecting the South-East to the North and offering premium services on the Lagos-Accra West Coast corridor.

Speaking during the rollout ceremony in Lagos last week, Chairman of the Chisco Group, Dr Chidi Anyaegbu, said the initiative aligns with his long-standing vision of creating jobs and improving mobility across the country.

He recalled that when he ventured into transportation in 1981, his focus was not solely on profit but on building a business capable of employing many Nigerians and supporting economic growth.

Managing Director of Chisco Transport, Mr Obinna Anyaegbu, said the company remains committed to meeting evolving transport and logistics demands, noting that beyond passenger movement, the firm handles sensitive cargo, including medical supplies.

“Apart from moving passengers, we are also moving very critical items across the country, and satisfying customers remains our promise,” he said.

A Yutong technical team led by Mr Damian Lee pledged round-the-clock after-sales support, faster spare parts supply and maintenance training to ensure optimal vehicle performance.

The 53-seater air-conditioned buses feature soft upholstered seats, phone-charging ports and onboard entertainment, while the trucks come equipped with modern safety features and sleeper cabins for drivers.

Chisco said vehicles assembled at the new plant would also be available to other transport and logistics operators seeking durable fleet solutions.