Skymit Motors thrills with all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class unveiling at Lagos Banana Island 

Skymit Motors Limited recently took the launch of the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class to Banana Island Estate, Lagos, creating excitement among the residents.

The unveiling, in conjunction with Weststar Associates Limited, the authorised distributor of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in Nigeria, was done at the estate’s annual Starlight Night held on Saturday, November 23rd, which added glamour to the night.

Skymit, one of the renowned companies in the Nigerian automotive industry, an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership, has close to 40 years of operations in Nigeria.

The auto firm shares the mission of promoting the “brand with the star” as well as providing Nigerians with exceptional service.

The residents of Banana Island Estate enjoyed a special showcase of the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-Class, along with other vehicles from the Mercedes-Benz Top-End Vehicle (TEV) portfolio, the statement added.

Indeed, the all new E-Class was easily the highlight of the night as the Skymit & Weststar team had put together an exclusive setting at the entrance of the estate.

Residents received even more luxurious experience with a Mercedes-Benz Lounge that was located at the Starlight Night performance.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the epitome of meticulous craftsmanship and technological prowess, a harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology, exquisite design, and unparalleled performance.

Just like its predecessor, the new E-Class promises to redefine the automotive landscape in Nigeria and provide an unrivaled driving experience. The new E-Class marks the advent of a new generation, introducing more technology and luxury.

Its powertrains are complemented by a fresh exterior design, creating a captivating presence on the road. Inside the vehicle, a plethora of new technology features permeate the cabin, providing a digital atmosphere that’s both immersive and intelligent.

Top executives from Skymit Motors were available to engage all guests, such as Mr. Martin Ayeni, Executive Director, Mr. Segun Naiye, General Manager, Mr. Bola Olaoshun, PA/Head of Admin, Mr. Oladimeji Ajayi, Finance Manager, Mr. Shakiru Babatunde, Sales Manager, Ms. Motunrayo Buraimoh, HR Manager, and Mr. Akin Abimbade, Protocol Manager.

There were also Directors and Executives from Weststar; including its Directors, Mr. Francis Ogboro and Mr. Osayande Asemota, its Managing Director, Mrs. Ebere Anenih; General Manager, Sales, Mr. Christopher Irumudomon; General Manager After-Sales, Mr. Ifeanyi Igbokwe; Head of Finance, Mr. Chima Otuechere, Head of Marketing, Mr. Oluwatobi Abimbola, and Head of IT, Mr. Chigozie Oranugo.

According to the statement, said the all-new E-Class along with other Mercedes-Benz Top-End Vehicles (TEVs) are now available at the Skymit Motors showrooms on Mobolaji Bank Anthony way in Ikeja and on Adeola Odeku Street in Victoria Island.

NAJA Awards: Innoson, Mikano, GAC nominated for car assembly plant of the year

There is excitement in the air as the year is gradually winding down. It is the season of stock taking; time for assessments in different sectors and decisions are made on products, services and companies that have stood out among others in an outgoing year.

For the auto industry, Nigeria Auto Journalists Association has shortlisted three companies, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) taking on industry heavyweights Mikano International and GAC Motors, for the Car Assembly Plant of the Year award.

This award event, scheduled for December 11 at the Oriental Hotels, Victoria Island, celebrates excellence in local assembly, innovation, and contributions to Nigeria’s automotive ecosystem.

Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), Nigeria’s first indigenous vehicle manufacturing company, has long positioned itself as a leader in producing vehicles tailored towards the local market.

Known for its affordability and focus on durability in harsh terrains, Innoson has become a symbol of Nigerian industrial ambition.

Innoson has not only been assembling vehicles but has taken bold steps to deepen local content in its manufacturing process. This sets them apart in their ability to create jobs and reduce the nation’s reliance on imports.

However, competitors like Mikano Motors have introduced sleek designs and advanced technologies from their local assembly plant that appeal to Nigeria’s growing middle class.

Mikano’s strategy has focused on offering luxury and utility vehicles assembled in Nigeria, leveraging its existing infrastructure and reputation in the power generation sector.

Similarly, GAC Motors has successfully carved a niche with its emphasis on innovation and energy efficiency. Its partnership with some state government, especially Lagos, has positioned it as a strong force in automobile industry.

Its after-sale service network and aggressive marketing have made it a formidable player in the industry.

The competition in this segment of Nigeria’s automotive sector is spurred by government policies such as the National Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP).

The policy incentivizes local assembly while imposing high import tariff on fully built vehicles to encourage domestic production.

“Innoson, Mikano, and GAC each bring unique strengths to the table,” said Theodore Opara, Chairman of the 2024 award planning committee.

“But the winner will ultimately be the one that combines innovation with affordability while addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic realities.”

Other nominees

While the nominees for the flagship “Car of the Year” category are still under wraps, other category contenders have been unveiled.

These nominations highlight the industry’s best in manufacturing, innovation, and service delivery.

In the Heavy-Duty Truck of the Year category, JAC, FAW, and Howo Sinotruk are set for a fierce contest.

Similarly, Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM), Dangote Sinotruk West Africa Ltd, and Perfection Motors are vying for supremacy in the Truck Plant of the Year category.

The Mini-Bus Assembly Plant of the Year includes nominees such as Jet Systems, Innoson, and Nord, while the Product Launch of the Year features entries like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Toyota Rumion, Toyota Belta, and the Suzuki Vitara.

Luxury enthusiasts will see Mercedes Benz S-Class as a strong contender for Luxury Brand of the Year, while Mercedes Benz GLE, BMW X7, and Range Rover Autobiography are competing in the Luxury SUV of the Year category.

In the Compact SUV of the Year, nominees include the Kia Sonett, Changan CS35, and Hyundai Venue, while the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Chery Tiggo Pro 2, and Nord A9 are vying for the Outstanding Entrant of the Year.

Chisco Transport, GUO Transport Company and Okeyson Transport have been shortlisted for the transport company of the year award.

“The NAJA Awards are not just about recognition but also about defining industry standards,” says Theodore Opara, Chairman of the Awards Committee.

He noted that emerging players and established brands alike are using the platform to showcase advancements in sustainable technology and customer engagement.

Winners of the NAJA Awards enjoy enhanced brand credibility and increased consumer trust. “These awards are a validation of quality, innovation, and market responsiveness,” added Opara.

According to the Chairman of NAJA, Mike Ochonma, beyond the prestige, this recognition sends a strong message about the direction of Nigeria’s automotive industry.

“It highlights the need for continued investment in local manufacturing and the potential for Nigeria to become a hub for automotive production in Africa.”
As the competition heats up, all eyes are on the trio of contenders, with stakeholders eager to see who will clinch the coveted title and set the benchmark for the future of Nigeria’s automotive landscape.

New dawn in Nigeria automotive solutions as Motul Lubricants, Winpart by CFAO launch partnership 

A new era in automotive solutions opens in Nigeria as Motul Lubricants and Winpart by CFAO have officially launched their strategic partnership in Lagos.

The nation’s auto industry is expected to receive unparalleled benefits from the formal collaboration between the two automobile solution giants.

The launch held Wednesday at the Whitestone Event Centre in Lagos, marks a significant milestone in the automotive sector with both brands affirming their commitment to delivering premium quality and exceptional value to their customers.

While Motul is a globally recognized leader in the formulation, production and distribution of high-tech engine lubricants and industrial products, Winpart by CFAO remains a leading distributor of multi-brand spare parts and lubricants in Nigeria.

Both companies noted at the launch that by combining Motul’s global expertise in high-performance lubricants with Winpart by CFAO’s established distribution network for multi-brand spare parts and lubricants, the partnership would make world-class automotive products more accessible to consumers in Nigeria.

Some of the industry stakeholders at the event are fleet maintenance companies, workshop owners, distributors, retailers and biker communities.

Senior Marketing Officer at Winpart by CFAO, Michael Ikiebe, stated, “This partnership is more than just about products; it’s about providing high-quality lubricants to a broad range of customers —from motorcycles to cars and trucks— ensuring that they can maintain and maximize the lifespan of their vehicles.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Winpart by CFAO, a name synonymous with quality and trust in the automotive industry.

“Together, we are setting a new standard for lubricant availability and service delivery in Nigeria,” said Omar Mecheri, Business Development Manager for Key Countries Africa at Motul.

Mohamed Taleb, General Manager at Winpart by CFAO, added, “This partnership marks a significant milestone for us.

“Our shared values and complementary strengths will undoubtedly provide unmatched value to our customers, and we are excited for the opportunities ahead.”

Key benefits of the partnership highlighted include: Enhanced accessibility in which Winpart by CFAO’s extensive distribution network will ensure that Motul products are widely available in key markets throughout Nigeria.

Expert support was also guaranteed with the partnership leveraging the technical expertise of both brands to educate and guide consumers and mechanics on best lubrication practices.

Sustainable solutions will be offered as both Motul and Winpart by CFAO expressed commitment to sustainability, ensuring their operations and products support environmentally friendly automotive care.

Attendees had the opportunity to experience Motul’s high-performance lubricants firsthand, gaining insights into their role in enhancing engine durability and overall vehicle performance.

Discussions also focused on how the partnership will foster innovation and improve automotive maintenance practices across the country.

The reliability and performance of Motul products were attested to by David Yakubu, promoter of 4teesautowerks, a performance garage in Lagos.

He said, “I’ve been using Motul products for over eight years, and I can personally attest to the superior quality of their lubricants and other automotive products.”

In another testimonial, Olukayode Kosile-Palmer, President of the Bikers with Attitude and Determination (B.A.D.) club, stated, “Our members have relied on Motul products for years to improve the performance and longevity of our bikes.”