Tinubu inaugurates first set of 30 Innoson CNG buses to boost  transportation - Newstrends
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Tinubu inaugurates first set of 30 Innoson CNG buses to boost  transportation

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Tinubu inaugurates first set of 30 Innoson CNG buses to boost  transportation

President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the first set of 30 Compressed Natural Gas, CNG-powered city buses at the Presidential Villa in Abuja aimed at boosting public transportation.

The hybrid buses, which engines can alternate between CNG and diesel as fuel, were built in Nnewi, Anambra State, by Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd (IVM).

The launch is in fulfilment of the Tinubu administration’s promise to reduce the pains of the removal of subsidy on fuel,

Twenty of the 100-seater long buses with hand grips for standing passengers, were procured by the Depots and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) and while the remaining 10 were bought by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and donated to the Federal Government.

Commissioning the buses shortly after the Federal Executive Council meeting, the President Tinubu had applauded Innoson Vehicles and its Chairman, Chief Chukwuma, for investing in the production of CNG vehicles which is in line with government’s initiative.

The President described CNG as “an economic necessity that we must embrace” in order to reap the benefits of transiting from diesel and petrol to cheaper and greener autogas.

Tinubu said that utilising natural gas to power the nation’s transportation industry would reduce costs, enhance productivity and save the nation trillions of naira spent on the importation of petrol and diesel.

He states further, “If we can enhance our energy competitiveness and bring about transformative changes like this, we will be able to achieve the prosperity we are working hard to accomplish for our people.

“These CNG buses are encouraging and promising to enhance our transportation system, ” he said.

The President disclosed that commercial vehicles account for over 80 per cent of the nation’s petrol demand, citing examples of several countries, including India, that had switched to CNG for their transportation systems and reaping the benefits since 2004.

“Countries like India have mandated CNG for all commercial vehicles since 2004.

“In Nigeria, commercial vehicles make up about 80 per cent of our petroleum demand, costing us trillions of naira every month.

“The solution is here. We have it. We will work on it. We promise you things will get better. Prosperity will be achieved.”

Commenting on the importance of the autogas vehicles, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris, said the hybrid nature of the buses manufactured by Innoson reflected the efforts of the Federal Government to transit from the traditional fuels to CNG.

Idris stated, “What you are seeing is the process of transition. It is also not expedient to put aside the traditional system. It is hybrid for now, and we hope that at the end of the day, there will be a complete transition to CNG. “What you are witnessing now (hybrid), is that in the event that you have some challenges, which is expected at the beginning, you can still rely on PMS (Premium Motor Spirit or petrol) or diesel, as the case may be.”

Also speaking at the event, the Chairperson of DAPPMAN, Winifred Akpani, declared her association’s support for the administration’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s transportation system, which she noted would lead to lower transportation costs.

She said, “This batch of hybrid buses, which DAPPMAN is donating to the Federal Government, furthers our support for this administration’s resolve to address Nigeria’s energy challenges.

“We are proud to note that these buses have been designed, manufactured, and delivered by Innoson Motors, a Nigerian company.”

The commissioning of the vehicles on Monday, August 12, 2024, came only four days after the President held a closed-door meeting with the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company, Chief Innocent Chukwuma, CON, at the Aso Rock Villa, on August 8, 2024.

Chukwuma had informed that the commuting public would soon enjoy cheaper transportation through Compressed Natural Gas-powered buses.

“I’ve discussed with him (President Tinubu) and in a short time, the masses, the public will have enough CNG busses on the road,” he told journalists after the meeting.

The Nnewi-based auto manufacturer had hinted at an ongoing partnership between his company and the Federal Government and described the Presidential CNG Initiative as “the way forward” for Nigeria.

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Jetour X90 Plus Combines Power, Luxury, Family-Friendly Space in One Package

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Jetour X90 Plus Combines Power, Luxury, Family-Friendly Space in one Package

 

As demand grows for spacious, feature-rich and value-driven SUVs in Nigeria, the Jetour X90 Plus is carving out a strong reputation as a premium family vehicle that seamlessly combines luxury, advanced safety technology and impressive performance.

Designed to meet the needs of modern families and ambitious professionals, the seven-seater SUV delivers a compelling blend of comfort, practicality and innovation, making it one of the standout contenders in Nigeria’s highly competitive mid-size SUV market.

The Jetour X90 Plus offers an appealing mix of generous cabin space, refined styling and cutting-edge technology, positioning it as a vehicle built for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.

Its growing presence in the Nigerian market is further strengthened by an extensive dealership network comprising Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era AutoVehicle Services Limited, Kojo Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Tab Autos Limited, R. T. Briscoe Motors and Mandilas Autos, according to a statement by Jetour Nigeria Mobility Services.

The SUV’s bold exterior is defined by a prominent hexagonal grille, sleek LED headlamps and a commanding road presence that projects confidence and sophistication.

Under the hood, the X90 Plus is available with two turbocharged powertrains.

The 1.6-litre turbo engine generates 197 horsepower and 290Nm of torque, while the 2.0-litre turbocharged variant delivers a more robust 254 horsepower and 390Nm of torque.

Both engines are mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel-drive system, ensuring responsive performance, fuel efficiency and smooth handling across varying road conditions.

Measuring 4,858mm in length, 1,925mm in width and 1,780mm in height, the SUV translates its substantial dimensions into a remarkably spacious interior.

The seven-seat cabin features premium materials, soft-touch finishes and elegant wood accents, while generous headroom and legroom across all three rows provide comfort for every occupant.

A panoramic sunroof further enhances the airy and luxurious feel of the interior.

Technology is at the heart of the driving experience, with a 12.3-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system supporting phone mirroring, Bluetooth connectivity, voice control and wireless charging.

The climate control system is managed through a digital touchscreen interface and includes automatic rear and roof-mounted air vents, as well as an air purification function.

Occupant comfort is enhanced by power-adjustable front seats equipped with heating, ventilation, memory settings and lumbar support, while an eight-speaker Sony sound system provides a premium audio experience.

Safety remains one of the vehicle’s strongest selling points. The X90 Plus comes equipped with multiple airbags, Vehicle Stability Control, Advanced Emergency Braking, Hill-Start Assist, Hill-Descent Control, an Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold and a high-mounted stop lamp.

The SUV also features an array of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including a 360-degree camera with 2D and 3D viewing options, forward collision warning, parking sensors, radar monitoring and lane departure warning, all designed to improve safety and driver confidence.

Additional convenience features include smart keyless entry, push-button start, electronic gear selection, multiple drive modes, cruise control, automatic tailgate operation and advanced LED lighting systems.

Jetour Nigeria says the X90 Plus is supported by a comprehensive aftersales programme that includes warranty coverage, trained technicians and readily available spare parts, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to reliability, customer satisfaction and long-term ownership value.

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Toyota Celebrates Customers, Partners as Zenith Bank Clinches Top Honour

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L-R: Chairman of Toyota Nigeria Limited, Chief Michael Ade.Ojo; Head of Admin and Due Diligence, Zenith Bank, Mr. Callixtus Nwodo; and Head, Dealer Development and Special Duties at Toyota Nigeria Limited, Mr. Henry Ojuoko, during the presentation of Toyota Starlet Cross to Zenith as winner of TNL Evergreen Customer award in Lagos.

Toyota Celebrates Customers, Partners as Zenith Bank Clinches Top Honour

Toyota (Nigeria) Limited celebrated customer loyalty, strategic partnerships and industry excellence at its 2026 Awards and Customers’ Night in Lagos, with Zenith Bank, AGL Motors and leading automotive journalists emerging among the biggest winners.

The event, which coincided with Toyota Nigeria’s 30th anniversary celebrations, attracted customers, dealers, government officials, financial institutions, media practitioners and other stakeholders who have contributed to the company’s growth over the past three decades.

A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Evergreen Customer of the Year Award to Zenith Bank Plc in recognition of its status as Toyota Nigeria’s most consistent customer over the last five years.

The award came with a brand-new Toyota Starlet Cross, presented by the company’s Chairman and founder, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo.

Managing Director of Toyota Nigeria Limited, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo; Chairman of TNL, Chief Michael Ade.Ojo, and MD/CEO, AGL Motors Ltd, Alhaji AbdulAfeez Gabar Lado, at the presentation of the 2025 best customer award to AGL Motors at the Toyota Awards in Lagos.

AGL Motors received recognition as Customer of the Year after recording the highest volume of Toyota vehicle purchases in 2025. The Nigerian Army and Zenith Bank finished as first and second runners-up respectively in the category, with winners receiving office equipment worth several millions of naira.

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Toyota Nigeria also used the occasion to honour members of the media for their contributions to automotive journalism and public understanding of developments in the sector. Theodore Opara of Vanguard won the Journalist of the Year Award, while Mike Ochonma of Transport World and Rasheed Bisiriyu of Newstrends emerged first and second runners-up respectively.

In his address, Managing Director of Toyota Nigeria, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo, described the annual gathering as a celebration of the enduring relationships that have shaped the company’s success since it commenced operations in 1996.

“Tonight is a moment of reflection, celebration and renewed commitment,” he said, noting that the event underscores Toyota’s customer-first philosophy and appreciation for the loyalty and trust of its stakeholders.

According to him, Toyota Nigeria has grown into one of the country’s most trusted automotive brands through its commitment to quality products, reliable after-sales support and continuous investment in customer satisfaction.

Ade-Ojo assured customers that despite prevailing economic challenges, the company would continue to introduce initiatives aimed at making vehicle ownership easier and more accessible for Nigerians.

He also expressed appreciation to dealers, customers, suppliers, consultants, financial institutions and employees for their support over the years, describing them as critical partners in Toyota Nigeria’s journey and future growth.

 

Toyota Celebrates Customers, Partners as Zenith Bank Clinches Top Honour

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Toyota moves to ease vehicle ownership amid economic challenges

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Managing Director of Toyota Nigeria Limited, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo; Chairman of TNL, Chief Michael Ade.Ojo, and MD/CEO, AGL Motors Ltd, Alhaji AbdulAfeez Gabar Lado, at the presentation of the 2025 best customer award to AGL Motors in Lagos.

Toyota Nigeria unveils plans to ease vehicle ownership

As rising costs put car ownership beyond the reach of many Nigerians, Toyota Nigeria Limited says it is rolling out fresh measures to make buying and maintaining vehicles easier for customers.

Managing Director, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo, announced the plans at the company’s 2026 Awards and Customers’ Night in Lagos, where he reaffirmed Toyota’s commitment to expanding mobility solutions in the country.

A statement on Thursday quoted Ade-Ojo as saying Toyota Nigeria would continue to innovate and introduce strategies that would enable more Nigerians to own and maintain Toyota vehicles while enjoying quality after-sales support.

According to him, the company’s commitment goes beyond selling vehicles to ensuring customers enjoy a seamless ownership experience through a robust nationwide service network.

“We will continue to innovate, adapt and elevate our product offerings and service delivery. Our ambition remains clear: to sustain industry leadership while contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic development as a responsible corporate citizen,” he said.

He added that the company’s future plans are aligned with Toyota’s global vision of enriching lives through mobility, with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability and value creation.

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Ade-Ojo noted that Toyota Nigeria’s success over the years had been driven by the loyalty of customers, support from dealers, suppliers, employees, financial institutions and strategic partners, as well as the guidance of the company’s board led by its founder and chairman, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Evergreen Customer of the Year Award to Zenith Bank Plc, which retained the title as Toyota Nigeria’s highest-volume customer for 2025. In recognition of the achievement, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo presented the bank with the keys to a brand-new Toyota Starlet Cross.

AGL Motors emerged overall winner in the Customer of the Year category, while the Nigerian Army and Zenith Bank were named first and second runners-up respectively. The winners received office equipment valued at several millions of naira.

Toyota Nigeria also honoured excellence in automotive journalism. Theodore Opara of Vanguard was named Journalist of the Year, while Mike Ochonma of Transport World and Rasheed Bisiriyu of Newstrends received awards for their contributions to automotive reporting, mobility advocacy and industry analysis.

Speaking at the event, several dealers and business partners commended Toyota Nigeria’s investments in dealer development, technical training and workshop upgrades, describing the initiatives as critical to sustaining high service standards and customer satisfaction across the country.

 

Toyota Nigeria unveils plans to ease vehicle ownership

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