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Electric vehicles crucial to Nigeria’s industrial growth, says Minister Oduwole at SAGLEV assembly plant visit
Electric vehicles crucial to Nigeria’s industrial growth, says Minister Oduwole at SAGLEV assembly plant visit
Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has highlighted the pivotal role electric vehicles (EVs) will play in shaping the country’s future industrial landscape.
She also promised the support of gge Federal Government for EV development in Nigeria and urged corporate firms and individuals to give their backing through patronage.
During a visit to SAGLEV, an EV assembly plant located in Imota, Ikorodu, Lagos State, Dr. Oduwole emphasized the potential of EVs to transform Nigeria’s transportation and logistics sectors by enhancing innovation, energy efficiency, and economic productivity.
She affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting local investors through business-friendly policies. “President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Nigeria First’ policy is designed to prioritize and empower Nigerian businesses like SAGLEV,” she said.
Referencing the recent Domestic Investor Summit, the minister noted that progress seen today is the result of years of groundwork, including training, collaboration, and strategic partnerships.
Dr. Oduwole pointed out that EVs consume 80% less energy than conventional vehicles, which could substantially reduce costs and support large-scale infrastructure projects such as the ongoing coastal road initiative.
She said, “This administration from industrial policy, to trade policy is focused on Nigerian investors and putting them first so that they can thrive.
“This (EV) is affordable; this is sustainable; this is what can really jump-start our transportation logistics businesses. So from a business perspective, there are affordable vehicles. There is also opportunity for credit which young Nigerians can look at it.
“We will continue to deliver workable reforms for small and medium sized enterprises as they scale, and manufacturers as they produce, we want them to be competitive.
“These are vehicles that use 80 per cent less of power and it is really what can take Nigeria to the next level, what can take productivity, with projects like coastal road, you know what that is going to mean as a multiplier effect for the Nigerian economy.
“Nigerians are extremely patriotic. Anything Nigeria is extremely popular.
I think we should stop this rhetoric of Nigerians not patronising Nigerian products. This is a product that is Chinese and it is going to be domiciled here. He also has his own brand that would be manufactured here in Nigeria.
“We really need to acknowledge and support investors who have taken the hard road of going through finding land, finding technical partner, going through trade facilitation with our ports, all the reforms that are going right now, making sure they are training young technicians, making sure they are also expanding outside the Nigerian market, exporting to the African Continental Free Trade Area, this is exactly what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu wants to see and how he wants to support domestic investors.”
The minister also pledged streamlining customs procedures, citing investors feedback that automation and other reforms are already making trade more efficient. “Trade facilitation is key, especially for our regional integration across Africa,” she said.
She mentioned the National Single Window Project (NSWP) as a vital step in simplifying trade processes, adding that while challenges remain, compliance with regulations is improving.
Also present was Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, who reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting EV investments under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration. She emphasized the employment potential such initiatives hold for Nigeria’s growing youth population.
Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council, Mr. Joseph Osanipin, announced that the much-talked about new legislation to regulate Nigeria’s automotive policy would be rolled out soon.
The DG also spoke about a National Occupational Standard policy for EV servicing and maintenance, which would guide training in technical institutions nationwide.
SAGLEV CEO, Dr. Gbenga Faleye, called for stronger government support to improve raw material importation and increase local patronage.
He said the company could produce 2,500 electric vehicles annually and employ residents from the Imota community as part of its corporate social responsibility.
Faleye urged Nigerian manufacturers to focus on the country’s vast opportunities despite persistent challenges.
“Progress takes time. Let’s stay focused on the possibilities,” he said.
The traditional ruler of Imota, Oba Ajibade Agoro, thanked the minister for her visit, declaring it a sign of Imota’s rising status as an industrial hub in Lagos.

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EXEED Sets Sights on Nigeria’s Luxury Car Market, Showcases Technology, Design Vision
EXEED Sets Sight on Nigeria’s Luxury Car Market, Showcases Technology, Design Vision
Versat Automobile Limited, the Nigerian representative of EXEED, is stepping up efforts to introduce the premium automotive brand to the country, offering prospective customers a closer look at its technology, design philosophy and vision for the future of mobility.
The move signals a new phase in EXEED’s Nigerian market entry, as the company seeks to establish its identity in an increasingly competitive premium vehicle segment where technology, performance, comfort and ownership experience are becoming important considerations for buyers.
Following its initial introduction to Nigeria in August, Versat Automobile is advancing the brand’s pre-launch activities by highlighting the philosophy and engineering thinking behind EXEED, a premium automotive marque within the Chery Automobile family.
Drawing on Chery’s extensive investment in automotive research and development, EXEED’s technology proposition covers vehicle architecture, powertrain engineering, intelligent cabin systems and connected driving technology.
However, the brand says its approach to innovation goes beyond simply adding more technological features to vehicles. Rather, it focuses on integrating intelligence, convenience, connectivity and performance to improve the overall driving experience and respond to the expectations of modern motorists.
Design is another major pillar of EXEED’s identity, with its vehicles combining distinctive exterior styling, lighting, detailing and cabin architecture with functionality and everyday usability.
The company’s approach reflects an evolving definition of premium mobility, where luxury is no longer determined solely by a vehicle’s appearance but also by how it feels, functions and interacts with occupants.
At the heart of the brand is its philosophy, Born for More, which is reinforced by what it describes as its Spirit of Exploration.
The philosophy is built around challenging conventions, looking beyond familiar boundaries and pursuing new possibilities. It targets customers who seek experiences beyond the ordinary and view mobility as more than simply moving from one destination to another.
Versat Automobile believes this positioning could resonate with Nigeria’s evolving premium automotive market, where buyers are increasingly considering technology, contemporary design, performance, comfort and the overall ownership experience when making purchasing decisions.
Christopher Irumudomon, General Manager, Sales, Versat Automobile Limited, said the introduction of EXEED was about presenting Nigerians with a different perspective on premium mobility rather than merely adding another vehicle brand to the market.
“The introduction of EXEED is about more than bringing another automotive brand to Nigeria. It is about introducing a different perspective on premium mobility, one that brings together technology, design, performance and the freedom to explore.
“EXEED has a distinctive philosophy and a clear vision for what it wants to represent, and we are excited to give Nigerians a closer look at the brand and what it has to offer,” he said.
As part of its broader engagement with the global technology and mobility ecosystem, the Versat team is also scheduled to participate in the International User Summit in China in October.
The visit is expected to provide opportunities for further engagement with Aimoga, a high-end robotics brand, highlighting the growing intersection between technological innovation, robotics and future mobility.
The engagement underscores the broader technological direction that EXEED seeks to associate with its premium brand identity.
Versat Automobile said further details about EXEED, including its products, technology and design philosophy, would be unveiled as the Nigerian pre-launch programme progresses.
Established in 2024, Versat Automobile Limited made its Nigerian market debut in 2026 with C&C Trucks and is building its portfolio around globally positioned automotive brands.
The company says its operations are guided by a commitment to performance, durability, quality, reliability and customer support, with EXEED representing its entry into the premium passenger vehicle segment.
For Nigeria’s automotive market, the forthcoming arrival of EXEED introduces another contender into the premium mobility conversation, with its eventual success likely to depend not only on the appeal of its technology and design but also on how effectively its Nigerian representative delivers on customer expectations.
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Auto
Omoda, Jaecoo bet on warranty, after-sales support to win Nigerian car buyers
Omoda, Jaecoo bet on warranty, after-sales support to win Nigerian car buyers
Omoda and Jaecoo are stepping up investment in warranty protection, spare-parts distribution and after-sales services as the emerging automotive brands seek to strengthen customer confidence and establish a lasting presence in increasingly competitive global markets.
The strategy is particularly relevant to Nigeria, where concerns about spare-parts availability, maintenance costs, technical expertise and the reliability of after-sales support often influence decisions when purchasing new vehicles.
Beyond attractive designs, advanced technology and vehicle performance, motorists increasingly want assurances that their investments will remain protected long after driving their cars out of showrooms.
Recognising this changing customer expectation, Omoda and Jaecoo are expanding their international after-sales infrastructure and warranty programmes to improve the ownership experience and address some of the industry’s longstanding concerns.
In the United Kingdom, vehicles from the two brands come with a seven-year or 100,000-mile warranty, while batteries in electrified models enjoy eight-year coverage.
Although warranty conditions differ across markets, the programme underscores the brands’ emphasis on long-term ownership support and customer assurance.
The companies are also advancing their Super Hybrid System, which combines petrol and electric power to deliver improved fuel efficiency while retaining the convenience of conventional refuelling.
The technology is designed to address a major concern among motorists considering electrified vehicles, particularly those who want the benefits of electric mobility without depending entirely on charging infrastructure.
The Jaecoo J7 PHEV has already attracted considerable attention in the UK market, emerging as Britain’s best-selling new SUV in September.
It also secured a Guinness World Record for the lowest fuel consumption recorded by a plug-in hybrid production SUV during the UK Three Peaks Challenge.
Similarly, the flagship Jaecoo J8 combines 428 horsepower with all-wheel-drive capability and an electric-only driving range of more than 130 kilometres.
In Indonesia, a Jaecoo vehicle also secured a Guinness World Record after covering a verified distance of 1,660 kilometres on a single tank of fuel and battery charge, further highlighting the efficiency potential of the brand’s hybrid technology.
Beyond product development and performance achievements, the companies are strengthening the supply chain that supports vehicle ownership.
A major step in this direction was the opening of a 12,000-square-metre spare-parts distribution centre in Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone in December 2024.
The facility stocks more than 20,000 different components to support parts distribution and improve service delivery.
The company has also indicated plans to establish similar facilities across different continents, with expansion already underway in South Africa.
For Nigeria, where the cost and availability of genuine spare parts can significantly affect vehicle ownership expenses, such investments could have important implications.
A dependable distribution network would help reduce the challenges associated with sourcing replacement components, while effective warranty administration and access to trained technicians could improve customer satisfaction and strengthen confidence in the brands.
As competition intensifies in Nigeria’s automotive market, the ability to provide reliable after-sales support could become just as important as introducing technologically advanced vehicles at competitive prices.
For Omoda and Jaecoo, the challenge will be to translate their growing international infrastructure and warranty commitments into accessible, consistent and responsive services for Nigerian customers.
Ultimately, winning the confidence of Nigerian motorists will require more than impressive vehicles and international performance records. It will depend on the brands’ ability to support customers throughout the entire ownership journey, from the first showroom visit to routine servicing and eventual replacement of parts.
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Auto
Why Toyota RAV4 Remains Attractive Choice for Nigeria’s SUV Buyers
Why Toyota RAV4 Remains Attractive Choice for Nigeria’s SUV Buyers
As Nigerian motorists increasingly look for vehicles that deliver comfort, dependable performance, fuel economy and versatility, the Toyota RAV4 continues to offer an appealing proposition in the country’s competitive sport utility vehicle market.
Combining a distinctive exterior design with a thoughtfully crafted interior, practical luggage accommodation and performance engineered for everyday driving, the RAV4 is designed to meet the expectations of individuals and families seeking a vehicle that balances functionality with driving pleasure.
Toyota (Nigeria) Limited (TNL) presents the RAV4 as an SUV that combines refined engineering, comfort and practicality, making it a consideration for motorists navigating the country’s diverse driving conditions.
Comfort and convenience for everyday motoring
One of the RAV4’s major attractions is its emphasis on passenger comfort and convenience.
According to Toyota Nigeria Limited, the vehicle features an automatic air-conditioning system with independent temperature controls for the left and right sides of the cabin. This enables occupants to enjoy a more comfortable interior environment, particularly during Nigeria’s hot weather.
The steering wheel is equipped with conveniently positioned audio control switches, allowing drivers to operate the entertainment system without taking their hands away from the steering wheel.
The interior design also prioritises passenger accommodation, providing generous seating space and flexibility for different transportation needs.
For motorists who regularly travel with family members or require additional luggage capacity, the rear seats can be folded to create more room for carrying larger items.
This practical arrangement makes the RAV4 suitable for everyday commuting, family outings, shopping trips and longer journeys.
Performance that balances acceleration and fuel economy
Performance is another important consideration for Nigerian motorists, particularly those who combine daily urban commuting with occasional interstate journeys.
Toyota Nigeria Limited describes the RAV4’s engine as delivering excellent acceleration from low speeds, while maintaining fuel economy, clean emissions and quiet operation.
This combination is particularly relevant in Nigerian cities, where motorists frequently encounter stop-and-go traffic, congested roads and varying driving conditions.
The emphasis on responsive acceleration and quieter operation also contributes to a more comfortable driving experience.
Fuel economy remains an important consideration for prospective vehicle owners, especially in a market where the cost of running and maintaining a vehicle influences purchasing decisions.
Toyota notes that fuel consumption varies according to fuel quality, environmental conditions and individual driving habits.
## Designed with practicality in mind
Beyond its performance and comfort, the RAV4 offers the versatility expected of a modern SUV.
Its flexible luggage arrangement allows owners to accommodate different cargo requirements by folding the rear seats when additional loading space is needed.
This feature is particularly useful for families, business professionals and motorists who require a vehicle capable of handling both passenger transportation and occasional cargo duties.
The SUV’s interior layout also reflects Toyota’s attention to functional design, with controls positioned to make everyday operation more convenient.
The advantage of buying through Toyota Nigeria Limited
For prospective buyers, the decision to purchase an SUV should go beyond the vehicle’s appearance, performance and convenience features.
The availability of genuine spare parts, professional maintenance services and manufacturer-backed warranty protection is equally important.
Toyota Nigeria operates through seven accredited dealers: Elizade Nigeria Limited, R.T. Briscoe (Nig.) Plc, Omoregie Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Kojo Motors, Mandilas Motors and Metropolitan Motors Limited.
According to the company, vehicles purchased through its accredited dealers enjoy a three-year or 100,000-kilometre warranty, whichever comes first.
TNL also explains that its vehicles are selected and supplied with specifications approved for the Nigerian operating environment.
An important component of this approach is the Severe User Package, which includes reinforced suspension, heavy-duty shock absorbers and engine under-guards, among other features designed to help vehicles withstand demanding road and terrain conditions.
This consideration is particularly relevant in Nigeria, where road conditions can vary considerably between urban centres, highways and rural communities.
The company’s accredited dealers also provide access to genuine Toyota spare parts and authorised servicing facilities.
Toyota further states that genuine spare parts purchased through its accredited dealers carry a 12-month or 20,000-kilometre warranty, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
A practical option for Nigerian motorists
For Nigerian buyers considering an SUV, the Toyota RAV4 presents a combination of passenger comfort, flexible luggage accommodation, responsive engine performance and practical everyday features.
Its automatic climate control, steering-mounted audio switches and adaptable rear seating arrangement address important aspects of everyday vehicle ownership.
Combined with Toyota Nigeria’s emphasis on specifications suitable for Nigerian conditions, warranty protection and access to genuine spare parts, the RAV4 offers prospective customers additional considerations beyond the initial purchase.
For individuals and families seeking an SUV that combines everyday practicality with the established Toyota ownership proposition, the RAV4 deserves consideration.

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