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NADDC DG, Nord CEO emerge Nigeria’s Auto personalities of the year 

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NADDC DG, Nord CEO emerge Nigeria’s Auto personalities of the year 

Nigeria’s automotive industry took centre stage in Lagos as the Nigeria Auto Journalists’ Association (NAJA) honoured two of its most influential change-makers at the 18th NAJA International Auto Awards. The Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Otunba Joseph Osanipin, and the Chairman/CEO of Nord Motors, Oluwatobi Ajayi, were crowned Auto Personalities of the Year in the public and private sectors respectively.

This is in recognition of their pivotal roles in reshaping policy direction, driving local production and accelerating the country’s transition towards sustainable mobility.

The awards, held at the Oriental Hotel on Victoria Island, Lagos, gathered policymakers, industry executives, manufacturers, assemblers, media professionals and automotive innovators to honour excellence across Nigeria’s automotive value chain, from vehicles and service providers to visionary leaders driving structural change.

Otunba Joseph Osanipin, Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), was honoured as Auto Personality of the Year (Public Sector).

NAJA highlighted his remarkable leadership in steering policy frameworks, galvanising local vehicle assembly, and championing alternative energy solutions that position Nigeria’s auto industry as a reliable engine for industrialisation and economic progress.

Under Osanipin’s stewardship, the NADDC has focused on:

Policy advocacy and industry development promoting Nigeria’s automotive vision.

Support for local vehicle assembly and capacity building for domestic value chains.

Strategic thrusts on alternative fuels and green mobility, complementing Nigeria’s broader energy transition goals.

In his acceptance remarks, Osanipin praised NAJA’s vital role in amplifying industry narratives and reinforcing transparency, innovation and accountability.

He underlined the importance of automotive journalism in informing the public and shaping policy debates, urging deeper collaboration between media and government to accelerate growth pathways.

Private Sector

On the private sector front, Oluwatobi Ajayi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Nord Motors, clinched Auto Personality of the Year (Private Sector), cementing his status as one of the most influential voices in Nigeria’s automotive industry.

Ajayi’s journey from Mercedes-Benz Nigeria, where he rose to Head of Vans Division, to co-founder of Jetvan and eventually CEO of Nord Motors illustrates a blend of engineering insight and entrepreneurial brilliance.

His leadership has been marked by a unique commitment to local production, technological innovation and home-grown brand building in a market long dominated by imports.

A few of Ajayi’s industry achievements include: Launch of Tavet Motion, an electric vehicle subsidiary dedicated to Nigeria’s EV future.

Unveiling of three locally assembled EV models — Luto, Garent and Vant — signalling Nigeria’s stride into sustainable mobility.

Industry observers say Ajayi’s recognition underscores the growing influence of private innovators who are redefining mobility in Africa through cutting-edge engineering, job creation and forward-looking enterprise models.

A Night of Broader Celebration and Industry Recognition

Beyond the personality awards, the 2025 NAJA Auto Awards spotlighted excellence across multiple categories, affirming the breadth of competition and innovation driving Nigeria’s auto industry forward:

Jetour Dashing was crowned Nigeria’s 2025 Car of the Year, a testament to rising consumer demand for modern, tech-enabled vehicles.

Mikano International earned Auto Company of the Year, while Toyota Nigeria’s Isolo facility was recognised as Workshop of the Year.

Local assembly and manufacturing players such as Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing and Iron Products Industries Ltd received accolades, reflecting the growing robustness of indigenous capacity.

New entrants and EV-focused brands also featured strongly, signalling growing attention on future mobility even as combustion engines remain dominant.

The NAJA awards come at a pivotal moment for the Nigerian auto sector as it aligns with broader national goals on sustainable mobility, job creation and industrial expansion.

With government pledges toward zero-emission vehicles by 2040, and expanded focus on local electric vehicle production, industry dynamics are rapidly shifting.

Osanipin and Ajayi’s wins reflect a dual narrative — policy ambition and entrepreneurial execution — that could define Nigeria’s automotive future over the coming decade.

In summary: As the industry celebrates its movers and shakers, the victories of Osanipin and Ajayi at the NAJA Auto Awards aren’t just personal milestones — they represent milestones for Nigeria’s auto industry as it navigates transformation from import dependency to innovation-driven growth.

 

NADDC DG, Nord CEO emerge Nigeria’s Auto personalities of the year

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CFAO Mobility Open Day to offer special deals on new vehicles, parts, diagnostics

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CFAO Mobility Open Day to offer special deals on new vehicles, parts, diagnostics

 

CFAO Mobility has announced plans to host the 2026 edition of its flagship CFAO Mobility Open Day, aimed at showcasing a wide range of innovative mobility solutions.

In a statement, the company said the event would take place on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, from 9am to 6pm.

The Open Day is expected to bring together leading global automotive and equipment brands in a dynamic exhibition tailored to meet diverse mobility needs.

Participating brands are Toyota, BYD, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Fuso, JCB, Howo, Sino Equipment, King Long, TechKing Tyres, Yamaha, Winpart and Auto Fast.

According to CFAO Mobility, attendees will experience an extensive display of products and services, ranging from brand-new vehicles and motorcycles to outboard engines, fleet management solutions, spare parts and aftermarket services.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will also feature test drives, professional vehicle diagnostics and exclusive spare-parts deals, offering participants a hands-on and engaging experience.

The company urged car enthusiasts, business owners and prospective buyers to take advantage of the Open Day to explore mobility solutions tailored to their personal and business needs.

With over 120 years of presence in Nigeria, CFAO Mobility remains a key player in the mobility and healthcare sectors.

It added that the Open Day reflects its continued commitment to delivering innovative, customer-focused mobility solutions.

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Jetour set to ignite Lagos with four-day automotive experience

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Jetour set to ignite Lagos with four-day automotive experience

 

Lovers of sophisticated and elegant SUVs in Lagos are about to witness a combination of automotive engineering and urban lifestyle as Jetour Nigeria announces the hosting of a flagship event, “The Jetour Experience,” a four-day immersive festival designed to redefine how Nigerians interact with the road.

​From April 16 to 19, 2026, The Podium in Lekki, Lagos, will be transformed into a high-energy hub where sleek design meets high-octane entertainment. This is not just a standard car show; it’s a curated lifestyle destination, says the organisers in a statement.

The four-day event is said to promise a fusion of horsepower, high fashion, and plenty of fun.

Tagged “The Jetour Experience,” the four-day extravaganza is not just about gleaming chrome and leather seats; it is a high-octane celebration aimed at blurring the lines between mobility and entertainment.

Specifically, it stated that the exhibition would feature test drives, virtual reality gaming, fitness sessions, and interactive activities with branded giveaways.

The statement added that the arena would buzz with entertainment, including contests and interactive games, giving guests the chance to win exclusive branded gifts and prizes.

​In a massive show of force, Jetour says it is partnering with its seven prestigious accredited dealers—Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era Autovehicle Services Limited, Kojo Motors, R.T. Briscoe, Tab Autos Limited, Mandilas Motors, and Germaine Auto Centre —to bring their full fleet to the public.

​Whether you are an eco-conscious commuter or an off-road adventurer, the lineup has something for everyone, according to a statement by the Jetour Nigeria.

​The Urban Explorers: X50 and X70

​The Sophisticates: X70 Plus and X90 Plus

​The Eco-Warriors: X70 PHEV and T2 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrids)

​The Icons: The rugged T2 and the razor-sharp Dashing

​Jetour is blurring the lines between mobility and entertainment. Running daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, the event promises a packed itinerary designed to keep the adrenaline pumping.

Visitors will also push limits during test drives, explore virtual reality (VR) gaming such as foosball, and take part in curated fitness sessions.

In a creative masterstroke, the grand finale will feature a car runway fashion show. Attendees can expect a visual feast where automotive engineering meets sartorial elegance, reinforcing the idea that a Jetour is not just a vehicle but a fashion statement.

The firm stated, “Beyond the glitz, the event maintains a strong focus on safety. A dedicated panel discussion featuring stakeholders and officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) will explore road safety, tech-driven security, and the future of motoring in Nigeria.

“With its blend of adrenaline, artistry, and advocacy, Jetour Nigeria isn’t just hosting an event; it is creating a destination.”

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Soaring Fuel Prices Drive Nigerians Toward Electric Vehicles

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Electric Vehicles

Soaring Fuel Prices Drive Nigerians Toward Electric Vehicles 

Rising fuel prices in Nigeria are accelerating interest in electric vehicles (EVs) as households, transport operators, and businesses seek cost-effective alternatives to petrol- and diesel-powered cars. Experts say the spike in petrol costs is no longer just an economic concern but a turning point, pushing electric mobility from a futuristic idea into a practical solution for everyday commuting and commercial use.

At the Abuja Compact on Electric Mobility Roundtable, stakeholders highlighted how increasing transport expenses are reshaping decisions, especially among commercial drivers and small business owners. Rising fuel costs are prompting many Nigerians to see EVs as a survival strategy rather than a luxury option.

Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (Pi-CNG & EV), Ismaeel Ahmed, explained that the removal of fuel subsidies has widened the cost gap between petrol-powered vehicles and EVs. Charging an EV for a 200-kilometre journey costs around ₦4,500, compared to roughly ₦22,500 for petrol vehicles — a difference that offers a “strong economic incentive” influencing consumer choices. Ahmed added that the federal government is pursuing a balanced transition strategy supporting both compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric vehicles to encourage sustainable energy alternatives.

Financial solutions are helping Nigerians overcome the high upfront costs of EVs. Mohammed Abdul, Divisional Head at Alternative Bank, noted that lease-to-own, pay-as-you-go, and partnership schemes are making EVs accessible to drivers in the informal transport sector. These financing models allow gradual adoption while easing financial burdens.

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Industry leaders also see wider economic benefits from EV adoption. Yusuf Suleiman, CEO of Bankrol Camel EV and Blue Camel Energy Ltd, said EV investments could improve energy access, boost industrial growth, and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported fossil fuels. Ahmed Garba Ahmed, COO of Bankrol Camel EV, added that EVs can cut energy costs per kilometre by up to 60%, benefiting ride-hailing drivers, logistics companies, and fleet operators.

Dapo Adesina, President of the Electric Mobility Promoters Association of Nigeria (EMPAN), explained that EV adoption can strengthen Nigeria’s power sector. Solar-powered charging hubs can simultaneously power vehicles and supply electricity to nearby communities, particularly in underserved areas. Private sector initiatives are also supporting Nigeria’s EV transition. Companies like SolarCity Gas are deploying superfast EV charging stations across key urban hubs and petrol stations, expanding the country’s charging infrastructure to meet growing demand.

Despite growing adoption, electric mobility in Nigeria faces challenges such as limited electricity infrastructure and inconsistent power supply. Analysts warn that significant investments in charging networks and supportive policies are necessary for sustainable EV growth. Nevertheless, with fuel prices remaining high, EVs are increasingly viewed as economically smart and environmentally friendly alternatives, offering Nigerians a viable solution to rising transport costs.

Soaring Fuel Prices Drive Nigerians Toward Electric Vehicles

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