Chanrai Storms Nigeria’s Gas Market, Unveils High-Capacity CNG, LNG Solutions to Power Energy Shift

By Rasheed Bisiriyu

Nigeria’s drive towards cleaner and more affordable transport fuel gathered fresh momentum on Friday as Chanrai Nigeria Limited formally entered the country’s gas distribution space, unveiling high-capacity CNG and LNG compression technologies in Lagos.

The company, a member of the globally diversified Kewalram Chanrai Group, announced a strategic partnership with India’s Tulip Compression to roll out advanced compressor packages and integrated “single window” CNG solutions aimed at accelerating the Federal Government’s Presidential CNG Initiative.

Chief Operating Officer of Chanrai Nigeria Limited, Anil Sahgal, described the Tulip CNG Compressor Packages as a “game-changer” for Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape.

“With our commitment to safety, efficiency and OEM-grade partnership, we’re empowering the nation to achieve its CNG ambitions while driving economic growth and environmental sustainability,” Sahgal said.

The move marks Chanrai’s expansion beyond its traditional business interests — which span automobiles, agro-products, healthcare and fast-moving consumer goods — into the fast-growing gas infrastructure segment, as fleet operators and industrial users increasingly seek alternatives to petrol and diesel.

Under the partnership, Chanrai Nigeria and Tulip Compression will deliver Compression Station on Single Window (CssW) solutions — integrating compressors, dispensers, storage and stainless-steel tubing under one brand — to simplify deployment and reduce installation timelines.

The compressor packages come in a wide capacity range, from 250 to 4,500 standard cubic metres per hour, making them suitable for small refuelling stations as well as large gas hubs.

A 1,400 SCMH gas engine-driven booster compressor is designed to refuel heavy-duty CNG trucks in about 20 minutes by drawing gas from tube trailers.

The systems are available in both electric motor-driven and gas engine-driven configurations, eliminating the need for large gas generators while ensuring energy efficiency and lower life-cycle costs.

According to the company, the equipment features dual-chamber leak-proof safety systems, advanced sealing technology to eliminate gas loss and global certifications including ATEX, CE, BIS and SGS standards.

The unveiling underscores the growing private sector response to government reforms encouraging gas adoption as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative fuel.

With the compressor packages now available for immediate orders, Chanrai Nigeria said it would provide 24/7 after-sales support, operations and maintenance services, as well as remote asset monitoring solutions.

The development signals intensifying investment in CNG infrastructure as Nigeria seeks to deepen local gas utilisation, reduce fuel import dependence and cushion consumers from volatile petrol prices.

Lagos Motor Fair, Autoparts Expo to begin March 17, targeting Investment, Industry Growth

The 20th edition of the Lagos International Motor Fair and the 13th Africa Autoparts Expo is set to spotlight investment, technology transfer and industry collaboration as organisers intensify efforts to position Nigeria as a major automotive hub in West Africa.

The three-day event, which will also incorporate the Africa Motorcycle and Tricycle Expo, is scheduled to hold from March 17 to 19, 2026, at the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos.

Organisers said the upcoming edition would focus strongly on accelerating the development of the country’s automotive sector by creating platforms that connect global manufacturers with local industry players.

“Nigeria has all it takes to become a global automotive industry giant,” the organisers stated, noting that the fair remains a strategic contribution toward driving growth despite prevailing industry challenges.

Chairman of the Organising Committee, Ifeanyichukwu Agwu, said the exhibitions had over the years evolved into a key platform for attracting investment into automobile spare parts and accessories manufacturing while strengthening aftermarket activities across the region.

“We have consistently used these events to attract investment into auto components manufacturing and to showcase the enormous capacity and potential of this critical sector of the economy,” he said.

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Agwu, who also serves as Managing Director of BKG Exhibitions Limited, disclosed that the 2026 edition would place emphasis on business-to-business engagement between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and auto parts dealers from Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

According to him, the goal is to foster partnerships capable of leading to the establishment of component manufacturing plants locally.

He added that the exhibition is expected to support government policies aimed at building a sustainable automotive industry by stimulating the emergence of companies involved in component production.

Calling for policy adjustments, Agwu urged the Federal Government to prioritise spare parts and components manufacturing over vehicle assembly, arguing that deeper technology transfer and innovation occur within the components segment.

“Spare parts manufacturing is where real technology transfer occurs. It involves precision engineering, planning and innovation—far beyond the coupling processes involved in assembly,” he said, while also advocating a review of the existing automotive policy to better support local production.

Despite the challenges associated with hosting large-scale industry events, Agwu reaffirmed the organisers’ commitment to sustaining the platform, warning that neglecting the automotive sector could have far-reaching consequences for the economy and employment.

The organisers said more than 100 original components manufacturers from countries including China, India, South Korea, South Africa, Singapore and Turkey, alongside major automobile distribution and manufacturing companies operating in Nigeria, are expected to participate.

In addition to product exhibitions, the event will feature seminars and technical workshops focusing on policy, investment opportunities, technology transfer and industry best practices, with each day structured to deliver value to exhibitors, investors, policymakers and other stakeholders.

Lagos Motor Fair, Autoparts Expo to begin March 17, targeting Investment, Industry Growth

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.