Auto
Corolla, Creta, Rio in final race for Nigeria’s car of the year
- Jet Systems, OMAA make EV, gas-powered vehicles list
Vehicles from three automakers, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Creta and Kia Rio, have emerged finalists for Nigeria’s car of the year.
Organisers of the 2021 Nigerian Auto Awards, Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA), made the disclosure in a statement listing all finalists in each of the awards categories.
Eventual winners in each of the categories are expected to be declared on December 1, 2021 at the Eko Hotels and Towers, Victoria Island, Lagos, it stated.
According to the Chairman of the award committee, Theodore Opara, Weststar’s Associates Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and Coscharis Motors’ BMW 7-series will compete in the Luxury car of the year segment. In the compact SUV segment, Toyota RAV4 is coming back to compete with Hyundai Tucson and Ford Escape for the coveted crown in this ever-growing sector of the Nigerian auto market.
In the pickup of the year segment, Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi L200 and Nissan Hardbody NP300 are set for another showdown as the contenders.
Hilux has won the awards on several occasions in the past, likewise the Ford Ranger.
While Jet Systems is captured in the electric bus promoter of the year. OMAA is also mentioned in the gas-powered vehicle promoter of the year.
Geely Coolray, being marketed by Mikano international Limited, is going head to head with Jaguar F-Pace from the Coscharis Motors’ stable in the outstanding design and technology of the year category.
Elizade Nigeria Ltd will be competing in the auto workshop of the year with Dana Motors and Mandilas Enterprise (Motor Division).
For the assembly plant of the year, Dana Motors, Stallion Motors’ VON assembly plant will slug it out in this category.
The Suzuki brand, which is being marketed by CFAO, is listed in the strongest comeback brand award, while PAN has been nominated for the most resilient auto company of the year.
Nigeria’s indigenous automaker, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Co, is captured in the auto assembler of the year (local content) because of its immense contribution in the development of the local auto industry and other ancillary allied automotive components.
Giving more insights into the special recognition awards, Opara disclosed that the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, will be honoured for his massive patronage of locally assembled vehicles from Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company.
“His gesture has immensely helped to develop the local auto industry and secure jobs for several thousands of Nigerians, and for this, he has been nominated as the Governor of the Year: Automotive Industry Support,” he added.
Chairman of the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association, Mike Ochonma, said all vehicles nominated in the various categories represented exceptional value and designs.
‘’The NAJA awards event, which holds every year, is part of our contributions towards the development of Nigeria’s automotive industry,’’ he stated.
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Auto
Jetour X90 Plus Combines Power, Luxury, Family-Friendly Space in One Package
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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Auto
Toyota Celebrates Customers, Partners as Zenith Bank Clinches Top Honour
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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Auto
Toyota moves to ease vehicle ownership amid economic challenges
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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