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Lagos-Ibadan trains moved 42,000 passengers in June – Amaechi
• Says Kaduna-Abuja train breakdown due to delayed spare parts
The recently launched Lagos-Ibadan trains conveyed a total of 42,000 passengers in the month of June 2021, Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has said.
He also said the recurrent breakdown recently experienced on the Kaduna-Abuja trains was due to delay in spare parts delivery from China.
The minister, who spoke on Friday after a routine inspection of the Lagos-Ibadan rail project in Lagos, however assured the Kaduna-Abuja train passengers that spare parts being expected for the Lagos-Ibadan trains would be used for the northern train locomotives when they arrived.
Amaechi said the number of passengers using the Lagos-Ibadan train was expected to increase as more people became aware of the benefits of the new train service.
He added that he had told the Nigerian Railway Corporation to increase the number of daily trains on that route from four to six.
The plan, he stressed, was to make the daily trips between Lagos and Ibadan 16 trains.
Amaechi said, “On the Lagos-Ibadan trains, 42,000 passengers were moved in June. We expect the figure to increase in the coming months because if we can move 42,000 in the month that we started, then the figure will increase as more people become aware of the train services between Lagos and Ibadan.”
The minister also spoke on the completion stage of the train stations, saying due to a recent kidnap of some Chinese officials in the Olodo area of Ogun State, the train station there had yet to be completed.
The minister said most of the stations had been completed except for Olodo being delayed due to the kidnap of Chinese officials. He also disclosed that the contractor had completed most of the communication and signalling work, but he noted, “We need to observe the project for the next six months to be sure everything is working perfectly as planned.
“If not, we won’t be able to do the 16 trips-a-day train schedule as planned. The reason we are inspecting is to be sure everything is working as planned. After six months, when we are very sure of what we are seeing, then we can bring in new coaches and locomotives and increase the trips.
“As of today, I have directed the NRC to scale up the number of trips per day from four to eight.” Speaking on the issue with the Kaduna-Abuja train, he said, “After the last breakdown of the Kaduna-Abuja train, I instructed the Nigerian Railway Corporation to rest that particular locomotive. I am surprised that there was another breakdown in the early hours of today.
“The issue with the breakdown of the Kaduna-Abuja train is due to lack of maintenance which is attributable to a lack of spare parts from China. We have written to Mr President on this issue and he has graciously approved the purchase of spare parts for the Lagos-Ibadan trains. Very soon, the Chinese people will supply us with enough spare parts for the Lagos-Ibadan rail. By the time they do that, we will be forced to use some of these spare parts for the Kaduna-Abuja trains and hopefully, the issue of incessant breakdown of the trains will be resolved.
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Hyundai unveils flagship SUV Palisade, rolls out strong line-up in Lagos showcase
Hyundai unveils flagship SUV Palisade, rolls out strong line-up in Lagos showcase
Hyundai Nigeria has unveiled the all-new Hyundai Palisade in Lagos, headlining a media showcase that also featured the Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Creta, Hyundai Tucson and Hyundai Santa Fe, as the automaker intensifies its push across key segments of the Nigerian market.
The event, held at the company’s Victoria Island showroom, offered journalists a first-hand view of Hyundai’s expanding portfolio, ranging from entry-level sedans to premium three-row SUVs.
Taking centre stage was the debut of the Palisade, Hyundai’s flagship SUV, positioned to strengthen the brand’s foothold in the premium segment.
With its bold exterior styling, spacious three-row layout, upscale interior and advanced safety and convenience features, the model is targeted at families and executive buyers seeking comfort, space and strong road presence.
Across the line-up, Hyundai showcased a broad spectrum of offerings. The Santa Fe reinforces its appeal as a refined, family-oriented SUV with generous cabin space and premium detailing, while the Tucson stands out for its blend of modern design, practicality and everyday versatility.
In the compact SUV category, the Creta was highlighted for its mix of style, efficiency and urban functionality, while the Accent sedan retains its positioning as a practical and cost-effective option for young professionals, fleet operators and first-time buyers.
Speaking at the event, Brand Head, Hyundai Nigeria, Gaurav Vashisht, said the launch underscores the company’s commitment to deepening its footprint in Nigeria with globally competitive products adapted to local needs.
“This introduction of the all-new Palisade strengthens our premium SUV offering while complementing a well-rounded line-up that delivers on design, safety, innovation and everyday usability,” he said.
The showcase also provided an avenue for media interaction with Hyundai executives and product specialists, alongside detailed vehicle walkarounds covering design, technology and safety features.
Hyundai Nigeria reaffirmed its focus on delivering globally benchmarked vehicles with strong local relevance, even as competition intensifies in Nigeria’s evolving passenger vehicle market.
The event also marked the launch of Hyundai’s Easter campaign, offering customers value-added benefits such as complimentary delivery, accessories, registration and service packages.
Auto
Jetour T2 Plug-in Hybrid EV: Rugged Adventure Meets Smart Electric Power
Jetour T2 Plug-in Hybrid EV: Rugged Adventure Meets Smart Electric Power
Jetour is pushing the boundaries of Nigeria’s Sports Utility Vehicl (SUV) market with the T2 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), a model that blends rugged off-road capability with the intelligence of modern electrification.
Built for motorists who demand strength without compromising comfort or efficiency, the T2 PHEV cuts an imposing figure with its bold stance—measuring 4,785mm in length, 2,006mm in width and 1,875mm in height—making it both commanding and practical.
According to Jetour Nigeria, the SUV is engineered to strike a balance between performance and efficiency, delivering a smooth, refined driving experience while offering premium comfort for both city commutes and long-distance travel.
Its accredited dealers across Nigeria – Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era Autovehicle Services Limited, Kojo Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Tab Autos Limited, R.T. Briscoe Motors and Mandilas Autos, are ensuring accessibility and support for customers nationwide, as one of the SUV’s standout qualities is its dual driving nature.
The T2 Hybrid delivers impressive fuel economy on petrol but can switch seamlessly to pure electric mode when required.
This flexibility reduces fuel costs and supports the Federal Government’s drive towards cleaner and greener energy solutions.
Jetour has also addressed common concerns around electrified vehicles.
The T2 Hybrid supports fast charging, slow charging, engine charging and brake energy recovery. In real terms, the system ensures the battery is constantly being replenished while driving, eliminating range anxiety and making ownership easier.
When the battery gets low, the 1.5 litre turbocharged engine takes over, but not to drive the wheels. It acts as a portable generator, charging the battery while you keep driving.
Energy is stored in a 26.73kWh battery, giving the T2 Hybrid the confidence to handle highways, urban traffic and rough terrain with ease.
The arrival of the T2 PHEV builds on Jetour’s growing reputation in Nigeria.
In 2024, the brand was named Fastest Growing Brand at the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Awards, while the Jetour Dashing clinched Nigeria’s Car of the Year in 2025.
Safety is a major strength. The T2 PHEV comes with multiple airbags, Advanced Emergency Braking, Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold, anti-rollover control and a 360-degree camera with 2D and 3D views.
Additional systems include lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, collision alerts, wading sensing system, bend braking control and automatic door locking.
Inside, technology and comfort take centre stage. A 15.6-inch touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, voice commands and wireless charging.
Features such as adaptive cruise control, panoramic roof, ventilated power seats, Sony 12-speaker audio and LED Matrix headlamps further enhance the experience.
Performance is sharpened by the advanced 3-speed Super E-Hybrid DHT system, delivering strong climbs, quick overtakes and efficient energy use.
It can run quietly on electric power for daily commutes or unleash turbo strength for long journeys.
Backing it all is strong aftersales support, including a five-year or 150,000-kilometre warranty, underlining Jetour’s confidence in its technology and commitment to Nigerian motorists.
With the T2 PHEV, adventure is not just about getting there, it’s about travelling smarter, cleaner and in unmistakable style.
Auto
Lagos gears up for major auto show, over 100 global firms storm fair
Lagos gears up for major auto show, over 100 global firms storm fair
Preparations have reached top gear for the 20th Lagos Motor Fair and the 13th Africa AutoParts Expo, with more than 100 international companies and a growing number of Nigerian firms confirming participation in the three-day automotive exhibition.
The event, scheduled for March 17 to 19, 2026, at the Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, is expected to draw major players from across the global automotive value chain.
Organisers say the exhibition will feature a broad display of automobiles, spare parts, accessories, lubricants, additives, financial services, insurance products and emerging security technologies designed for the mobility sector.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, Chairman of the Organising Committee and Managing Director of BKG Exhibitions Limited, Ifeanyi Agwu, said the fair has grown into a prominent international marketplace where manufacturers, distributors and service providers explore new partnerships and business opportunities.
According to him, the 2026 edition has attracted strong global interest, with companies from Turkey, China, India, Germany and the United Arab Emirates already registered to exhibit their products and services.
Agwu disclosed that several Nigerian companies have recently joined the list of participants, adding that the exhibition continues to serve as a major meeting point for both established brands and emerging players in the automotive ecosystem.
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He noted that this year’s fair will host businesses across multiple segments of the industry, including passenger vehicles, buses, trucks, spare parts manufacturing, lubricants, accessories, automotive technologies as well as financial and insurance services linked to mobility.
“Virtually all the major brands in automobiles, spare parts, lubricants, financial services and insurance, as well as regulatory and policy-making agencies, are expected at this year’s fair. The response from industry stakeholders has been very encouraging,” Agwu said.
The organisers also expect a strong showing from members of the Motorcycle Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) and the Automotive Local Content Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (ALCMAN), following new strategic collaborations aimed at deepening local industry participation.
Agwu explained that the fair remains an important platform for promoting Nigeria’s automotive industry and attracting investment into the sector.
Despite the economic pressures affecting the industry and the broader economy, he said the organisers remain committed to sustaining the event as a platform for policy dialogue, investment promotion and collaboration among key stakeholders.
“For more than a decade, the Lagos Motor Fair has provided a unique opportunity to assess the capacity and future potential of Nigeria’s automotive sector while bringing together policymakers, investors and industry players to exchange ideas,” he added.
To broaden participation, the organisers said efforts have been intensified to attract institutional buyers, trade professionals, industry associations and individual consumers.
As part of plans to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional automotive hub, invitations have also been extended to trade groups and professional associations across West and Central Africa through the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA).
Agwu said the long-term vision is to position Nigeria’s auto parts market as a production, distribution and trading hub for West, Central and East Africa, with the capacity to serve the wider African market.
With support from international partners in Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, China and India, more than 100 original equipment manufacturers and dealers in auto parts and accessories are expected to take part in the exhibition.
The organisers said particular attention is being given to the spare parts segment of the industry due to its potential to stimulate small-scale manufacturing and create significant economic multiplier effects.
“Our focus on the spare parts sector is deliberate. It is aimed at encouraging the growth of local manufacturing and strengthening value chains within the automotive ecosystem,” Agwu explained.
He added that the presence of global manufacturers in Lagos would enable Nigerian and regional dealers to establish direct supply relationships with original producers.
Beyond the business exhibitions and networking sessions, visitors are also expected to enjoy product demonstrations, promotional giveaways, lucky dips and other interactive activities planned by participating companies.
The organisers said the three-day fair has been designed to appeal to both industry professionals and the general public, combining business engagement with entertainment.
“Visitors and exhibitors should expect an exciting and memorable experience. This year’s edition promises to set a new benchmark for automotive exhibitions in sub-Saharan Africa,” the organisers said.
Lagos gears up for major auto show, over 100 global firms storm fair
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