Nigeria Must Build, Not Just Import Vehicles, Oyeyemi Tells FG as Auto Policy Review Begins - Newstrends
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Nigeria Must Build, Not Just Import Vehicles, Oyeyemi Tells FG as Auto Policy Review Begins

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Nigeria Must Build, Not Just Import Vehicles, Oyeyemi Tells FG as Auto Policy Review Begins

 

The Federal Government has commenced a fresh review of Nigeria’s automotive policy to accommodate emerging technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs), compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered vehicles and other alternative energy solutions, even as stakeholders have called for a more consistent policy framework that prioritises local manufacturing and value creation.

The development was disclosed at the 30th anniversary celebration of Motoring World International in Lagos, where industry leaders highlighted the urgent need to reposition Nigeria’s automotive sector for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, represented by the ministry’s Desk Officer for the Auto Industry, Samuel Adetoro, said the ongoing policy review is aimed at aligning Nigeria’s automotive ecosystem with global trends in sustainable mobility and industrial development.

According to the minister, the automotive industry remains a critical pillar of Nigeria’s industrialisation agenda with the capacity to generate employment, attract investments, deepen local manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported vehicles.

She explained that while the existing automotive policy had provided a framework for vehicle assembly operations, rapid technological advancements and changing global realities made it necessary to update the policy to address current and future transportation needs.

“The Ministry is working closely with stakeholders on the review of the National Automotive Industry Development Framework to ensure that it responds effectively to emerging realities, including electric mobility, CNG vehicles, automotive software development, smart manufacturing and green transportation technologies,” she said.

Oduwole added that the government is seeking to create an enabling environment that will encourage local production and assembly of alternative-fuel vehicles, while strengthening local content development, technology transfer, research and development, and the competitiveness of Nigerian automotive manufacturers.

She stressed that collaboration between government and the private sector would be crucial to building an automotive ecosystem capable of serving both domestic and regional markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The review comes amid the prolonged delay in the passage of the National Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) Bill, which is intended to provide a legislative and regulatory framework for investors in the sector.

The bill, passed by the Eighth National Assembly, was denied presidential assent and has remained in limbo for more than a decade.

Speaking at the event, former Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi, urged the Federal Government to adopt a long-term and consistent automotive industry policy focused on domestic manufacturing rather than revenue generation through vehicle import duties.

Oyeyemi, who chaired the occasion and is also President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), said Nigeria possesses one of Africa’s largest automotive markets, supported by a population of over 240 million people, an estimated vehicle fleet of 21 million and more than 204,000 kilometres of road network.

However, he lamented that policy inconsistencies and weak support for local manufacturers had prevented the country from fully harnessing its vast potential.

He noted that repeated reviews of the National Automotive Industry Development Plan and related regulatory frameworks had failed to generate sustained industrial momentum, forcing investors to enter and exit the sector while several assembly plants struggled to survive.

According to him, Nigeria remains heavily dependent on imported used vehicles despite its enormous capacity for vehicle assembly, component manufacturing, automotive financing and electric vehicle infrastructure development.

Also speaking, Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Joseph Osanipin, represented by the council’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Susan Bisong-Taiwo, called for stronger collaboration among government, industry stakeholders and the media to accelerate automotive industrialisation.

He said the council is implementing initiatives in electric vehicle development, CNG conversion, local content promotion, component manufacturing, skills acquisition and strategic partnerships aimed at transforming Nigeria from a vehicle-consuming nation into a leading automotive manufacturing hub in Africa.

Osanipin said the automotive industry is at a critical turning point globally, with innovations in electric mobility, alternative fuels, smart manufacturing and digital technologies redefining the future of transportation. He stressed that Nigeria must move swiftly to position itself as a key player in the evolving automotive landscape rather than remain a passive consumer of imported technologies.

According to him, the NADDC is pursuing strategic programmes designed to deepen local capacity, strengthen the automotive value chain and create employment opportunities for Nigerians. These initiatives, he noted, include support for local component manufacturing, skills development, research and innovation, as well as partnerships aimed at accelerating the adoption of cleaner and more efficient vehicle technologies.

“The future of mobility is already here, and it is being driven by innovation, sustainability and collaboration. Nigeria must not be left behind. Through deliberate policies, strategic investments and strong partnerships among government, industry players and the media, we can transform our nation from a vehicle-consuming market into a competitive automotive manufacturing and innovation hub for Africa,” Osanipin said.

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Jetour G700 PHEV Lands in Abuja for 3-Day Luxury Mobility Showcase

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Jetour G700 PHEV Lands in Abuja for 3-Day Luxury Mobility Showcase

Jetour Nigeria is taking its premium mobility campaign to the Federal Capital Territory, with the flagship G700 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) set to headline a three-day luxury automotive showcase in Abuja from September 22 to 24, 2026.

The Abuja experience, coming on the heels of the brand’s major showcase in Lagos, is part of Jetour Nigeria’s aggressive drive to deepen its presence in the country’s premium automotive market while introducing consumers to a new generation of electrified mobility.

The G700 PHEV, positioned as Jetour’s flagship luxury SUV, combines executive-class comfort with advanced hybrid technology and serious off-road capability.

The model’s arrival in Abuja also comes at a time the brand is gaining increasing recognition in Nigeria’s automotive industry. Jetour Nigeria was recently honoured by the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) as the Fastest Growing Auto Brand of the Year, underscoring its expanding market presence.

At the heart of the G700 is Jetour’s Kunpeng Super Hybrid system, paired with dual electric motors. The powertrain delivers a claimed combined driving range of up to 1,400 kilometres, offering a response to one of the major concerns surrounding electrified vehicles—range anxiety.

The flagship SUV also comes equipped with adaptive suspension, triple differential locks and up to 970mm wading capability, giving it the muscle to handle demanding terrain while retaining the refinement expected of a luxury vehicle.

Inside, the six-seat G700 delivers a premium cabin experience, featuring Nappa leather upholstery, massage seats, a 35.4-inch 3K panoramic display, an 18-speaker Lexicon sound system and an onboard refrigerator.

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The Abuja showcase is expected to attract government officials, corporate executives, fleet managers, motoring enthusiasts and members of the media. Participants will have the opportunity to experience the G700 through an exclusive vehicle reveal, hands-on demonstrations and VIP test drives.

Jetour Nigeria promises ownership support

Beyond the vehicle itself, Jetour Nigeria is highlighting its after-sales support as a key component of the ownership proposition.

Customers purchasing through its authorised network will benefit from a five-year or 150,000-kilometre manufacturer warranty, access to genuine spare parts, software upgrades and certified technical support.

The company currently operates through seven accredited dealerships, including Elizade Nigeria Limited, New Era AutoVehicle Services, Kojo Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Tab Autos, R.T. Briscoe Motors and Mandilas Motors.

Jetour Nigeria is inviting prospective customers and automotive stakeholders to register for the Abuja experience and secure VIP test-drive slots.

Registration, vehicle specifications and event updates are available through www.jetournigeria.com, Instagram @jetour_nigeria and @Jetourngofficial, or via info@jetournigeria.com.

 

Jetour G700 PHEV Lands in Abuja for 3-Day Luxury Mobility Showcase

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Uber exits Nigeria after 12 years

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Uber exits Nigeria after 12 years

By Rasheed Bisiriyu

Global ride-hailing giant, Uber, has pulled out of Nigeria, ending its 12-year operation in the country and bringing to a close a major chapter in the evolution of app-based transportation in Africa’s most populous nation

The company announced the decision on Wednesday, saying it would wind down its Nigerian operations effective September 2, 2026.

Uber said the decision followed a “thorough review” of its business in the country.

“We are writing to share some difficult news. After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective 2 September 2026,” the company said in a message to its customers.

The development marks the end of Uber’s 12-year presence in Nigeria, which began with its launch in Lagos in 2014.

Its arrival transformed the urban transportation landscape, particularly in Lagos, by popularising app-based ride-hailing and providing commuters with an alternative to conventional taxis and other forms of commercial transportation.

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Through its platform, passengers could request rides using their mobile phones and connect with independent drivers, while vehicle owners and drivers gained access to a new source of income.

Over the years, Uber became a familiar part of the daily commuting experience of many Nigerians, particularly in major urban centres.

The company, while announcing its exit, thanked Nigerians for allowing it to become part of their daily lives.

“Since we first launched in Lagos in 2014, it has been an absolute privilege to be a part of your daily life connecting you with independent transportation providers,” Uber said.

“Whether it was a morning commute, a ride to see loved ones, or exploring the city, thank you for trusting the platform to connect you to a driver to get you there safely.”

Uber also apologised to customers for the disruption its departure might cause.

“We know this may cause disruption to your routine, and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience,” it said.

The company’s exit comes as Nigeria’s ride-hailing market has become increasingly competitive, with several local and international platforms offering app-based transportation services to commuters.

The sector has also faced challenges linked to rising vehicle operating costs, fuel prices, regulatory requirements and changing market conditions.

Uber said its Help Centre would remain available until September 23 to assist customers with final account-related enquiries.

“Thank you for welcoming us into your city,” the company said.

Uber’s departure brings to an end a significant chapter in Nigeria’s digital transportation story, following its role in changing how millions of commuters booked and paid for rides over the past decade.

 

Uber exits Nigeria after 12 years

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Who Drives Best? Naija Driver 2026 Opens Free National Search for Driving Champion

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Who Drives Best? Naija Driver 2026 Opens Free National Search for Driving Champion

A new nationwide driving competition designed to combine driver education with practical skills testing is set to begin in September, with organisers targeting safer roads and a reduction in crashes linked to human error.

‘Dubbed Naija Driver 2026’, the inaugural Nigerian Drivers Challenge is being organised by Notch Captains Limited under the Approval in Principle and Safety Frameworks of the Automobile & Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN), the country’s sole representative of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), in collaboration with the Lagos State Drivers Institute (LASDRI).

The organisers said the initiative, which will be conducted free of charge, is aimed at creating a new culture of responsible motoring by giving licensed Nigerian drivers access to structured road-safety education, testing and practical driving assessment.

Registration and safety screening for the competition will open on September 1, 2026, through its digital learning portal. The programme is open to licensed Nigerian residents aged between 18 and 65.

According to a statement signed by Ingram Osigwe, Director of Media, Communications, Marketing and Public Relations of the organising committee, participants will undergo online training covering defensive driving, road-use regulations, crash-scene management, emergency victim stabilisation during the critical “Golden Seconds” and preventive vehicle maintenance.

The training will lead to a Unified National Computer-Based Test in October, with candidates expected to sit for the examination simultaneously across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Project Director and Managing Director of Notch Captains Limited, Adrian Egonu, said the competition would use a decentralised verification system to ensure credible identity checks while eliminating the logistical difficulties associated with moving large numbers of candidates across the country.

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Under the arrangement, the three highest-scoring candidates from each state and the FCT will undergo document verification and practical screening in their respective locations in October.

The successful state and FCT champions will then converge on Lagos for the final live-action driving competition scheduled for November 7 to 10.

The final stage will test the contestants’ vehicle-handling agility, chassis control and emergency-braking precision, with the driving trials conducted before a live and televised audience.

Beyond the competition, the organisers plan to use the platform to promote emergency response awareness among motorists, particularly on what ordinary road users can safely do during the crucial first moments after a crash before professional responders arrive.

An Executive Road Safety Advocacy Gala Night will also be held ahead of the final driving trials, bringing together government representatives and senior executives of major Nigerian conglomerates to endorse a national highway safety advocacy pledge.

The initiative is also expected to deepen motorists’ understanding of vehicle insurance and risk protection through presentations by leading motor insurance institutions.

As part of its social-impact component, the organisers said official charity visits would be made to hospitals where road-crash victims are undergoing rehabilitation.

Gender inclusion is another major component of the competition, with organisers encouraging more women to enter and compete alongside their male counterparts.

The organisers have also partnered with Skinetics Med Spa on a “Glam n Drive” package, which will feature gifts and vouchers for participants throughout the tournament, subject to applicable terms and conditions.

Osigwe urged individual motorists, corporate fleet managers, transport unions and e-hailing operators to take advantage of the free training and testing opportunities when the official portal becomes operational.

He said the ultimate objective was to ensure that Naija Driver 2026 goes beyond crowning a champion to create a nationwide pool of better-trained, safety-conscious and responsible motorists.

With the competition slogan, “Drive. Compete. Lead,” the organisers said Naija Driver 2026 would seek to demonstrate that driving excellence is not merely about speed or vehicle control, but also about knowledge, discipline, emergency preparedness and respect for other road users.

 

Who Drives Best? Naija Driver 2026 Opens Free National Search for Driving Champion

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