Auto
CIG boosts Nigeria-China trade relations with G-Style showroom, others
Choice International Group, Nigeria’s representative of GAC Motors, is leading the promotion of bilateral relation between Nigeria and China through trade and business development embedded with cultural value.
Barely 10 years of doing automobile business in Nigeria, the Chief Diana Chen-led CIG is seen to have dominated the nation’s auto industry, bringing a lot of innovations and added value into the business.
For instance, the group has just unveiled a G-style showroom and workshop in Victoria Island, Lagos, with the state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, opening the facility built with a new concept and unique equipment.
Apart from providing space to display new tastefully furnished and distinctively designed cars, the waiting areas for customers (G-Elite, G-Stars and G-Family) offer clients an opportunity to interact with three different cultures – Nigeria, Europe and China. The visitors are made to admire Nigerian artworks in a cozy environment.

Chen, in an interview, said, “When we were designing the showroom and planning the opening, we thought of the message we want to put across to the people. Someone came up with the name G-Style and it was discussed that it must be of international standard.
“Apart from the classy automobiles on display, we must have the European architecture, Chinese brand with African artwork. It should have the art spirits. It is a combination of the artwork and the new car technology. They are not just ordinary cars but the beauty of technology.”
She explained that the “G” is for everything good, great and colourful, adding, “The G of course represents the GAC.”
The CIG chairman is not new to the promotion of Nigerian cultures and talents; she is known to have sponsored major cultural events including the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, The Voice Nigeria and Miss Nigeria.
Her company also supports the development sports by identifying with event such as the 21st African Athletics Championships; the Lagos City Marathon; Feet & Tricks Football Competition; and the Lagos State Charity Boxing Exhibition (Rumbles in Lagos).
As a proof of her commitment towards the promotion of China-Africa cooperation and China-Nigeria trade and cultural exchanges, the Chairman of CIG is currently the Vice-Chairman of China-Africa Business Council and Regional Director of the Belt & Road International Commercial Mediation Centre in West Africa.
She was actively involved in the establishment of the mediation centre in West Africa in 2019. The Belt and Road Initiative is a strategy initiated by China seeking to connect Asia with Africa and Europe via land and maritime networks with the aim of improving regional integration, increasing trade and stimulating economic growth.
The CIG has extended into the production of essential home and office electronic items through Lontor Home and Gree Nigeria.
She also launched the Choice International Business School in collaboration with the Confucius Institute at the University of Lagos, an initiative meant to give opportunity for company’s workers to acquire more knowledge while earning their living.
Apart from providing direct jobs for Nigerians in the company, the group has embarked on the training and empowerment of young technicians under one of its subsidiaries, Gree Nigeria. Those trained are thereafter provided with necessary equipment to start work immediately, an initiative aimed at taking many out of the job market.
The firm recently confirmed that it would in a few months open in Ogba, Lagos, an auto assembly plant being developed in conjunction with the state government aimed at invigorating the nation’s economy.
“We are helping a number of Nigerian organisations, private and public to grow such as LCCI, NIPPS, Air Peace, in different ways, either through partnership or sponsorship of programmes/events.
“We signed an agreement with the LCCI at the beginning of the year. Gree is the head sponsor of the Lagos International Trade Fair,” Chen said.
She said, “China recognises Nigeria’s high level of friendship. Nigeria is one of our topmost friends. “And we have taken up the challenge in Nigeria through our company.”
These engagements and active participation in local public welfare activities and shows have earned her accolades and recognitions.
Chen is Vanguard’s Foreign Investor of the Year. She won the Auto CEO of The Year prize at the prestigious Nigeria Auto Journalists Awards last year.
She is the first to be decorated with this prize by the auto journalists while her GAC GSA Sports Utility Vehicle won the Most Fascinating SUV of The Year award, the first by any Chinese made auto company.
She was in 2015 conferred with a chieftaincy title in Nigeria, the Iyalaje of Oshodi, making her the first Chinese female chief in the country. She had since received two more titles from Ondo State.

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Auto
Toyota Motor Show Roars into Lagos Tomorrow with Test Drives, Debates, Free Diagnostics, Others
Toyota Motor Show Roars into Lagos Tomorrow with Test Drives, Debates, Free Diagnostics, Others
4-Day Festival Kicks Off June 2, No Admission Fees
If you have ever wanted to get behind the wheel of a Land Cruiser, grill a Toyota engineer, or win prizes while learning how your engine actually works, tomorrow is your day.
Toyota Nigeria Limited will throw open the gates for its annual Toyota Motor Show on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. And for four days, Lekki becomes the city’s biggest car park, debate stage, and hangout spot rolled into one. The show runs through Saturday, June 6, with a break on Friday, 5th June, according to the organisers, TNL.
Forget the usual “stand-and-stare” motor shows. TNL says it is going full experience:
Day 1: Tuesday, June 2 – See It, Drive It, Hear It
Doors open for open vehicle viewing. But the headline is _PodCARst_ going live – Toyota’s new podcast recorded on-site. First guest? Celebrity guest Soma, in conversation with execs. Think cars, culture, and no script.
Day 2: Wednesday, June 3 – Youth Takeover
This is for students and young professionals. Expect debate competitions, quiz battles, and hands-on workshops. Kate Henshaw, screen legend, will be on ground to meet fans and judge the action.
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Day 3: Thursday, June 4 – Influencer Tours
Social media star Mama Deola leads guided vehicle tours. She will walk the arena, break down why the Hilux still owns Nigerian roads, and why the Corolla and other Toyota models make sense for fuel prices today. Public access continues all day.
Grand Finale: Saturday, June 6 – The Bump Off
The event will close with another _PodCARst_ recording popular social media influencer, Ride With Mee, then turn up the energy for the “Toyota Bump Off” – a mini-rave hosted by media personality Dotun. DJ, outdoor games, prizes, and one last round of test drives.
All Week Long, All Visitors Get:
1. Free vehicle diagnostics – TNL technicians will scan your car, no charges.
2. Test drives – From Camry to RAV4 to Hilux. Book a slot, feel the ride.
3. Open exhibitions – Touch, sit, and compare Toyota’s latest models and mobility solutions.
Why it matters: This isn’t just a car show. It’s Toyota Nigeria doubling down on connection. No sales pitch banners. Just real conversations, real cars, and real value for owners and future owners. After two years of record crowds, this 3rd edition is bigger, louder, and more interactive.
Admission is free. Bring your questions, bring your car keys, and bring your appetite for prizes.
Venue: The Podium. I24 Tunde Kuboye Road. Lekki. Lagos
Dates: Tuesday June 2 – Saturday June 6, 2026. No Show on Friday June 5.
Toyota Motor Show Roars into Lagos Tomorrow with Test Drives, Debates, Free Diagnostics, Others
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Auto
Toyota By CFAO Launches 2026 RAV4 in Nigeria, Ends Long Wait for Latest Global Model
Toyota By CFAO Launches 2026 RAV4 in Nigeria, Ends Long Wait for Latest Global Model
Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria has unveiled the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4, bringing the latest generation of the globally acclaimed SUV to the Nigerian market in a move that signals a new era for local vehicle buyers.
For the first time, Nigerian customers will have access to the same-generation RAV4 available in leading international markets, eliminating the years-long delay that has traditionally separated local buyers from global launches.
The new SUV is backed by a three-year manufacturer’s warranty, Toyota-certified after-sales support and nationwide access to genuine spare parts, with customer deliveries already underway.
Speaking at the unveiling, Managing Director of Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria, Boye Ajayi, said the company was raising the benchmark for vehicle ownership in the country.
“The 2026 RAV4 is here. Nigerian customers are no longer waiting years behind global markets or settling for older specifications. They are receiving the same vehicle available internationally, at the same time, with full manufacturer support,” Ajayi said.
Available in three variants — Active (2.0L 2WD), Comfort (2.0L 4WD) and Limited (2.0L 4WD) — the SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre DOHC petrol engine producing 172 horsepower and features Sport, Normal and Eco driving modes.
Designed to balance comfort, performance and practicality, the RAV4 offers a 481-litre cargo space, 201mm ground clearance and a 55-litre fuel tank suited for both city commuting and long-distance travel.
Standard features across the range include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, dual-zone climate control, LED headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, SmartKey keyless entry, push-button start and a rear-view camera.
Toyota also equipped the SUV with an extensive safety package, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), hill-start assist and multiple airbags.
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While the entry-level Active variant targets urban motorists seeking reliability and efficiency, the Comfort model adds all-wheel-drive capability, heated front seats, roof rails and additional convenience features for customers who frequently travel outside city limits.
The flagship Limited variant comes with a larger 12.8-inch infotainment screen, panoramic sunroof, premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats and seat heating, offering a more luxurious driving experience.
Ajayi described the new RAV4 as more than a routine upgrade, noting that the improvements are both visible and practical.
“This is not a minor refresh. The upgrades are evident in the technology, interior refinement, driving experience and overall convenience offered to customers,” he said.
To strengthen ownership confidence, Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria said the vehicle is supported by a robust after-sales ecosystem comprising trained technicians, genuine parts inventory and service centres in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt. The company plans to expand its authorised service network to 75 locations nationwide by March 2027.
The launch has already generated strong market interest, with several customers placing confirmed orders ahead of the official unveiling.
According to Ajayi, the early demand reflects a growing shift among Nigerian buyers towards brand-new vehicles backed by manufacturer warranties and structured after-sales support, rather than used imports with uncertain histories.
Managing Director of CFAO Mobility, Denis Martin, said Nigeria’s inclusion in the global launch schedule demonstrates the progress made by Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria in building world-class sales and service infrastructure.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is now available at Toyota-by-CFAO showrooms in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, with financing options offered through partner institutions. A public launch event featuring test drives and on-site vehicle orders is scheduled for June 11 at the company’s Victoria Island showroom in Lagos.
Toyota By CFAO Launches 2026 RAV4 in Nigeria, Ends Long Wait for Latest Global Model
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Auto
Carloha Rides High, Plans New EV for Nigeria After Winning Global Honours
Carloha Rides High, Plans New EV for Nigeria After Winning Global Honours
Carloha Nigeria, the authorised dealer of Chery vehicles in Nigeria, is strengthening its position in the country’s automotive industry after clinching two prestigious global awards as it unveils plans to introduce another electric vehicle (EV) into the market.
iCAUR (iCAR) is a global youth-oriented electric vehicle brand under the Chery Group, which was developed in partnership with SmartMi Tech. The brand is focused on stylish designs and smart mobility and it is currently expanding across international markets.
Carloha Nigeria received the New Star Award and Brand Leap Contribution Award at the 2026 Chery Global Summit and Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in China. This is in recognition of its rapid market growth, brand development efforts and customer engagement initiatives.
The international recognition comes as Carloha intensifies its push into Nigeria’s growing EV space, buoyed by the positive reception of the iCAUR brand among motorists, technology enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers.
Managing Director, Sola Adigun, said the awards validate the company’s commitment to delivering world-class automotive solutions, while the growing acceptance of iCAUR reflects increasing consumer interest in innovative and sustainable mobility options.
“The Nigerian automotive market is evolving, and consumers are becoming increasingly receptive to innovation, sustainability and smart mobility solutions.
“The success of iCAUR has encouraged us to continue investing in the future of electric mobility in Nigeria,” he said.
Adigun disclosed that plans for the launch of a new EV are at an advanced stage, describing the move as part of a broader strategy to expand consumer choice and support Nigeria’s transition to cleaner transportation.
He added, “Winning these awards on the global stage is a strong endorsement of the work our team has done in building the Chery brand in Nigeria.
“It also demonstrates that Nigerian automotive businesses can compete successfully with the best across the world.”
According to him, Nigerian customers are increasingly demanding vehicles that combine intelligent safety technologies, premium comfort, fuel efficiency and modern design, noting that these qualities were prominently showcased by Chery at the Beijing exhibition.
“Beyond selling vehicles, our goal is to provide mobility solutions that meet the evolving needs of Nigerian families and businesses while aligning with global trends in sustainability, innovation and customer experience,” Adigun said.
At Auto China 2026, Chery also showcased its latest safety and intelligent mobility technologies, including the all-new TIGGO V and its AiMOGA robotics innovations, under its new global brand philosophy, “For Family.”
General Manager, Felix Mahan, said the awards underscore Carloha Nigeria’s commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, adding that the company’s CarlohaCare 6-6-7 package continues to offer customers industry-leading aftersales support through a six-year warranty, six years of free service and a seven-day repair promise.
“This recognition reflects growing international confidence in both the Nigerian market and our ability to deliver world-class customer experience. We remain committed to making vehicle ownership easier, more affordable and more rewarding for our customers,” Mahan said.
With fresh global recognition and an expanded EV strategy, Carloha is positioning itself as one of the key players driving the future of sustainable mobility in Nigeria.

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