Auto
FG seeks patronage for local auto manufacturers, endorses Nord Motors
FG seeks patronage for local auto manufacturers, endorses Nord Motors
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, has endorsed the Nord automobile brand, even as she called on government agencies and the private sector to boost their patronage of Made in Nigeria products.
The minister gave this endorsement today, October 1, 2025, being Nigeria’s 65 independence anniversary, when she visited the Nord automobile assembly plant inside the University of Lagos (UNILAG) to pick up her newly acquired Nord Demir SUV.
The minister was received by the representative of the Vice Chancellor of UNILAG, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic and Research. Prof. Bola Oboh, as well as the Chairman of Nord Automobiles, Mr. Oluwatobi Ajayi.
Speaking at the ocassion, the Minister said :“With the Africa Continental free trade zone agreement, you should be able to scale you industrialization and your production, across Nigeria, you have two assembly plants, here and Epe, and your capacity is more than enough to meet increasing demand of Nigerians and I am glad that you told me that.
“You have corporate clients, four of the top ten companies in the Nigeria Stock Exchange, we are going to be encouraging the private sector and all Nigerians to patronize Made in Nigeria products, this is a proudly Made in Nigeria product, right here at the University of Lagos where I am a product of.
“As a ministry, we are committed to supporting your sector, and Mr. President has prioritised Nigeria First”.
Also speaking, the representative of the UNILAG VC, Prof Oboh stated, “UNILAG is very proud to welcome the Minister of Trade, Investment and Industry, an alumnus of the University of Lagos, one of our own who left from the faculty of Law to serve the government, as she picks up her official car, the Nord Demir, assembled at the University of Lagos.”
She added, “We are happy with the initiative of the federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that made in Nigeria goods should be patronized.
“In UNILAG, we are proud that not only do we have this assembly plant, which is also producing electric vehicles, we are proud because we are a Green campus, we have Green buses, and Nord is also about to launch their green vehicles. Our students intern here on a regular basis”.
The Nord Automobile Chairman, Mr Oluwatobi Ajayi, while appreciating the minister for the support, stated, “It is a privilege to have you as one of the owners of the elegant Nord vehicles.
“I am happy to say that you are a customer, or user or driver that I will always tell people that our own Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment of my own country drives a Nord vehicle. I am very happy about this.”
He equally thanked UNILAG for the partnership, which, according to him, “has transformed into one of the most important part of the company. It has been an amazing decision for us”.
Nord Automobiles assembles a range of automobiles, including sedans, pickups, sports utility Vehicles and buses. Others are electric vehicle and tricycles
Auto
JéGO unveils zero carbon EV after 505km single-charge test drive by police officer, plans Nigeria-based factory
JéGO unveils zero carbon EV after 505km single-charge test drive by police officer, plans Nigeria-based factory
JéGO Technologies Inc has launched its new high-intelligence electric vehicle, the JéGO Zero Carbon, into the Nigerian market—signalling a major leap in the country’s shift towards clean, intelligent, and locally adapted mobility.
The unveiling led by JéGO Founder and CEO Frederick Akpoghene at the 5th International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (ICAIR) was held at the University of Lagos.
Akpoghene reaffirmed the company’s mission to build transportation solutions engineered specifically for African conditions.
To demonstrate its durability, the JéGO Zero Carbon underwent a bold 505 km real-world endurance test: Ajah → Ikoyi → Osun State → back to Ajah — all completed on one full charge.
During the journey, the EV: climbed steep, muddy slopes after rainfall; navigated unpaved rural roads and villages; maneuvered through pothole-ridden corners using its 360° camera system; outperformed several petrol vehicles that stalled or turned back, and maintained strong traction, cooling, and stability across conditions.
Inside the cabin, a built-in mini-fridge kept the crew refreshed throughout the trip, turning the vehicle into a mobile workspace.
First in Nigeria
The entire Lagos–Osun–Lagos trip was driven by Officer Ebenezer of the Nigeria Police Force — not in an escort capacity, but as the sole driver.
His performance provided compelling proof that law enforcement can seamlessly adapt to EVs
- The Zero Carbon suits patrols, rapid-response operations, and government duties
- EVs can withstand long distances and mixed terrains typical of policing routes
Officer Ebenezer praised the vehicle’s handling, comfort, and safety.
The Osun trip followed an invitation from JéGO’s clean-energy partner PAM to its Net Zero Village.
Residents, engineers, climate activists, and youth innovators explored the EV, many expressing excitement at seeing an electric vehicle designed with Nigerian realities in mind.
“We’re proving that EVs are not for elites. JéGO EVs are for everyday Nigerians — founders, business people, government workers, first responders, and the police,” Akpoghene said.
Performance stuns Osun govt
State officials were astonished that the EV:
- Completed a same-day interstate journey without recharging
- Navigated rural and muddy terrain effortlessly
- Returned to Lagos on the same charge
When asked how the team planned to get back to Lagos, Akpoghene replied confidently, “Our police driver will take us back.”
And he did — seamlessly.
Following the successful demonstration, JéGO announced plans to establish its first electric vehicle and clean-energy manufacturing plant in Nigeria.
Multiple states have already tabled offers as:
Land allocation
Industrial incentives
Tax support
Workforce partnerships
Long-term collaboration frameworks
The proposed factory will support:
Local EV assembly
SKD/CKD operations
Production of JéGO PowerPods and batteries
EV servicing and diagnostics
Export to West Africa
Large-scale job creation
Final site selection will depend on infrastructure, energy availability, logistics access, and government partnership strength.
Smart, performance-driven
The Zero Carbon comes with 505km driving range, 360° surround-view cameras, traction control and hill-assist, anti-skid systems for wet roads, high-output LED lighting, Intelligent Battery Management System, egenerative braking and advanced cooling and AC systems.
Drivers praised its quiet ride and stability over rough terrain.
Charging
The EV supports:
Home charging
Public charging
Fast charging (where available)
Solar charging via JéGO PowerPods
With PowerPods, users — including security agencies — can charge their vehicles without relying on the grid.
JéGO says it is offering:
Lease-to-own plans
Staff and driver purchase programmes
This provides accessible entry points for SMEs, government agencies, ride-hailing operators, and everyday individuals.
Akpoghene said the Zero Carbon proves that long-distance, intelligent EV mobility is achievable in Nigeria — even under the rigors of police operation.
“Nigeria is not waiting for the world,” he said. “We’re building our own mobility and energy ecosystem. And the next step is manufacturing these systems right here at home.”
JéGO will now expand deployment of its EVs, PowerPods, JéGO X stations, and energy solutions across strategic states, supported by its upcoming Nigerian factory.
Auto
Jetour to showcase full SUV line-up, hybrid vehicles at 2025 Abuja motor fair
Jetour to showcase full SUV line-up, hybrid vehicles at 2025 Abuja motor fair
Jetour Mobility Services is set to make a strong presence at the 2025 Abuja International Motor Fair, showcasing its full range of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), cutting-edge hybrid models, and customer-focused services.
The brand will display its impressive line-up, such as the Jetour T2, Jetour X70 Plus, Jetour X90 Plus, Jetour X70 Dashing, and Jetour X50, as well as its newly introduced hybrid variants, the X70 Hybrid and T2 Hybrid.
These models combine performance with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, designed with today’s families and adventure-minded drivers in mind, blending advanced technology, comfort, and affordability.
Jetour’s participation underscores its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, strengthening its footprint in the SUV and crossover segments.
The company’s steady rise in the Nigerian market has been remarkable, validated by its “Fastest Growing Auto Brand of the Year” award at the 2024 Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Awards.
Jetour Nigeria is also highlighting its robust after-sales service, including genuine spare parts, technical support, and a comprehensive five-year or 150,000-kilometre warranty.
The firm says it looks forward to engaging with customers, showcasing its latest innovations, and reinforcing its position as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising automotive brands at the fair, scheduled for November 18-21 at the Eagle Square, Abuja.
Auto
BYD unveils ‘Atelier BYD’, creative hub blending innovation, sustainability, lifestyle in Lagos
BYD unveils ‘Atelier BYD’, creative hub blending innovation, sustainability, lifestyle in Lagos
BYD has introduced an exciting initiative at its brand-new showroom in the heart of Victoria Island, a monthly showcase dedicated to projects that reflect its core values of innovation, sustainability, and lifestyle.
The first edition in October featured PITH Africa, an Afrocentric streetwear brand redefining creative expression for a new generation.
Currently on display until the end of November is Mint Organic Care, a brand that champions eco-conscious living and personal well-being.
For December, a Christmas Pop-Up will spotlight projects such as Clay of Lagos, Kelly Praise, Stitches by Lope, Mostudeo, PITH Africa, and Mint Organic Care.
Upcoming editions will continue to feature innovative projects, each bringing fresh ideas and unique perspectives to enrich this collaborative platform.
BYD Nigeria is the sole and official distributor of BYD electric and hybrid vehicles in Nigeria. The brand is distributed by CFAO Mobility, a leading automotive distributor and subsidiary of the CFAO Group, which has been present in Nigeria for over 120 years.
-
Education3 days agoReps halt WAEC 2026 CBT plan, say schools not ready till 2030
-
metro3 days ago“You introduced me to drugs” — Regina Daniels’s co wife, Laila, fires back
-
metro1 day agoKperogi debunks online claims linking Naval Officer Yerima to retired Gen. M.M. Yerima
-
Africa3 days agoAU Chief dismisses Trump’s genocide claim, says Nigeria faces complex security crisis
-
Entertainment3 days agoForgotten star: Pa Ojoge’s heartbreaking story of survival, neglect
-
metro2 days agoNed Nwoko’s household in turmoil as wives clash publicly on Instagram
-
Sports2 days agoSuper Eagles crush Gabon 4–1 after extra time to reach World Cup playoff final
-
Auto3 days agoBYD unveils ‘Atelier BYD’, creative hub blending innovation, sustainability, lifestyle in Lagos

