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.

ABC Transport Group Records 121% Profit Surge as Diversification Pays Off

ABC Transport Plc has reported a strong financial performance for the year ended December 31, 2025, posting a 121 per cent surge in consolidated gross profit as diversification across its business segments strengthened earnings.

The company disclosed in its unaudited results that gross profit rose to N1.4bn in 2025, up from N634m recorded in 2024, while turnover increased by 29 per cent to N16.31bn from N12.61bn. Profit after tax also climbed by 46 per cent to N863.7m, compared with N592.53m in the previous year.

A breakdown of the operating results showed positive contributions from all business segments, reflecting improved operational efficiency and resilience despite prevailing industry challenges.

Group Managing Director, Jude Nneji, attributed the improved performance to the company’s diversified business model within the road transport and logistics ecosystem.

“Our strategy is to maintain a portfolio of complementary but largely distinct businesses, enabling us to withstand environmental pressures and manage operating headwinds more effectively,” he said.

ABC Transport’s operations span multiple segments, including haulage services providing dedicated logistics support to Lafarge Africa Plc, as well as cargo and courier operations under ABC Cargo Express Limited, which offers warehousing and delivery solutions to corporate clients and the general public.

The Group’s portfolio also covers intercity passenger transport services across Nigeria and the West African coast, alongside hospitality operations through City Transit Inn, a 114-room budget hotel in Abuja. Other business lines include Transit Support Services Limited, its manufacturing and trading arm, and a Driver Training Academy that supplies skilled drivers to the Group while offering professional training to the public.

Looking ahead to 2026, the company said it plans to deepen its presence in cargo and courier logistics through the expansion of branch networks and fulfilment centres nationwide, supported by a renewed fleet programme.

ABC Transport remains Nigeria’s most diversified transport operator, with interests spanning haulage, passenger services, logistics and hospitality, and is currently the only transport company listed on the Nigerian Exchange.