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Tinubu inaugurates first set of 30 Innoson CNG buses to boost transportation
Tinubu inaugurates first set of 30 Innoson CNG buses to boost transportation

President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the first set of 30 Compressed Natural Gas, CNG-powered city buses at the Presidential Villa in Abuja aimed at boosting public transportation.
The hybrid buses, which engines can alternate between CNG and diesel as fuel, were built in Nnewi, Anambra State, by Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company Ltd (IVM).
The launch is in fulfilment of the Tinubu administration’s promise to reduce the pains of the removal of subsidy on fuel,
Twenty of the 100-seater long buses with hand grips for standing passengers, were procured by the Depots and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) and while the remaining 10 were bought by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and donated to the Federal Government.
Commissioning the buses shortly after the Federal Executive Council meeting, the President Tinubu had applauded Innoson Vehicles and its Chairman, Chief Chukwuma, for investing in the production of CNG vehicles which is in line with government’s initiative.
The President described CNG as “an economic necessity that we must embrace” in order to reap the benefits of transiting from diesel and petrol to cheaper and greener autogas.
Tinubu said that utilising natural gas to power the nation’s transportation industry would reduce costs, enhance productivity and save the nation trillions of naira spent on the importation of petrol and diesel.
He states further, “If we can enhance our energy competitiveness and bring about transformative changes like this, we will be able to achieve the prosperity we are working hard to accomplish for our people.
“These CNG buses are encouraging and promising to enhance our transportation system, ” he said.
The President disclosed that commercial vehicles account for over 80 per cent of the nation’s petrol demand, citing examples of several countries, including India, that had switched to CNG for their transportation systems and reaping the benefits since 2004.
“Countries like India have mandated CNG for all commercial vehicles since 2004.
“In Nigeria, commercial vehicles make up about 80 per cent of our petroleum demand, costing us trillions of naira every month.
“The solution is here. We have it. We will work on it. We promise you things will get better. Prosperity will be achieved.”
Commenting on the importance of the autogas vehicles, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Mohammed Idris, said the hybrid nature of the buses manufactured by Innoson reflected the efforts of the Federal Government to transit from the traditional fuels to CNG.
Idris stated, “What you are seeing is the process of transition. It is also not expedient to put aside the traditional system. It is hybrid for now, and we hope that at the end of the day, there will be a complete transition to CNG. “What you are witnessing now (hybrid), is that in the event that you have some challenges, which is expected at the beginning, you can still rely on PMS (Premium Motor Spirit or petrol) or diesel, as the case may be.”
Also speaking at the event, the Chairperson of DAPPMAN, Winifred Akpani, declared her association’s support for the administration’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s transportation system, which she noted would lead to lower transportation costs.
She said, “This batch of hybrid buses, which DAPPMAN is donating to the Federal Government, furthers our support for this administration’s resolve to address Nigeria’s energy challenges.
“We are proud to note that these buses have been designed, manufactured, and delivered by Innoson Motors, a Nigerian company.”
The commissioning of the vehicles on Monday, August 12, 2024, came only four days after the President held a closed-door meeting with the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company, Chief Innocent Chukwuma, CON, at the Aso Rock Villa, on August 8, 2024.
Chukwuma had informed that the commuting public would soon enjoy cheaper transportation through Compressed Natural Gas-powered buses.
“I’ve discussed with him (President Tinubu) and in a short time, the masses, the public will have enough CNG busses on the road,” he told journalists after the meeting.
The Nnewi-based auto manufacturer had hinted at an ongoing partnership between his company and the Federal Government and described the Presidential CNG Initiative as “the way forward” for Nigeria.
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Auto
Toyota Motor Show Roars into Lagos Tomorrow with Test Drives, Debates, Free Diagnostics, Others
Toyota Motor Show Roars into Lagos Tomorrow with Test Drives, Debates, Free Diagnostics, Others
4-Day Festival Kicks Off June 2, No Admission Fees
If you have ever wanted to get behind the wheel of a Land Cruiser, grill a Toyota engineer, or win prizes while learning how your engine actually works, tomorrow is your day.
Toyota Nigeria Limited will throw open the gates for its annual Toyota Motor Show on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. And for four days, Lekki becomes the city’s biggest car park, debate stage, and hangout spot rolled into one. The show runs through Saturday, June 6, with a break on Friday, 5th June, according to the organisers, TNL.
Forget the usual “stand-and-stare” motor shows. TNL says it is going full experience:
Day 1: Tuesday, June 2 – See It, Drive It, Hear It
Doors open for open vehicle viewing. But the headline is _PodCARst_ going live – Toyota’s new podcast recorded on-site. First guest? Celebrity guest Soma, in conversation with execs. Think cars, culture, and no script.
Day 2: Wednesday, June 3 – Youth Takeover
This is for students and young professionals. Expect debate competitions, quiz battles, and hands-on workshops. Kate Henshaw, screen legend, will be on ground to meet fans and judge the action.
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Day 3: Thursday, June 4 – Influencer Tours
Social media star Mama Deola leads guided vehicle tours. She will walk the arena, break down why the Hilux still owns Nigerian roads, and why the Corolla and other Toyota models make sense for fuel prices today. Public access continues all day.
Grand Finale: Saturday, June 6 – The Bump Off
The event will close with another _PodCARst_ recording popular social media influencer, Ride With Mee, then turn up the energy for the “Toyota Bump Off” – a mini-rave hosted by media personality Dotun. DJ, outdoor games, prizes, and one last round of test drives.
All Week Long, All Visitors Get:
1. Free vehicle diagnostics – TNL technicians will scan your car, no charges.
2. Test drives – From Camry to RAV4 to Hilux. Book a slot, feel the ride.
3. Open exhibitions – Touch, sit, and compare Toyota’s latest models and mobility solutions.
Why it matters: This isn’t just a car show. It’s Toyota Nigeria doubling down on connection. No sales pitch banners. Just real conversations, real cars, and real value for owners and future owners. After two years of record crowds, this 3rd edition is bigger, louder, and more interactive.
Admission is free. Bring your questions, bring your car keys, and bring your appetite for prizes.
Venue: The Podium. I24 Tunde Kuboye Road. Lekki. Lagos
Dates: Tuesday June 2 – Saturday June 6, 2026. No Show on Friday June 5.
Toyota Motor Show Roars into Lagos Tomorrow with Test Drives, Debates, Free Diagnostics, Others
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Auto
Toyota By CFAO Launches 2026 RAV4 in Nigeria, Ends Long Wait for Latest Global Model
Toyota By CFAO Launches 2026 RAV4 in Nigeria, Ends Long Wait for Latest Global Model
Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria has unveiled the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4, bringing the latest generation of the globally acclaimed SUV to the Nigerian market in a move that signals a new era for local vehicle buyers.
For the first time, Nigerian customers will have access to the same-generation RAV4 available in leading international markets, eliminating the years-long delay that has traditionally separated local buyers from global launches.
The new SUV is backed by a three-year manufacturer’s warranty, Toyota-certified after-sales support and nationwide access to genuine spare parts, with customer deliveries already underway.
Speaking at the unveiling, Managing Director of Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria, Boye Ajayi, said the company was raising the benchmark for vehicle ownership in the country.
“The 2026 RAV4 is here. Nigerian customers are no longer waiting years behind global markets or settling for older specifications. They are receiving the same vehicle available internationally, at the same time, with full manufacturer support,” Ajayi said.
Available in three variants — Active (2.0L 2WD), Comfort (2.0L 4WD) and Limited (2.0L 4WD) — the SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre DOHC petrol engine producing 172 horsepower and features Sport, Normal and Eco driving modes.
Designed to balance comfort, performance and practicality, the RAV4 offers a 481-litre cargo space, 201mm ground clearance and a 55-litre fuel tank suited for both city commuting and long-distance travel.
Standard features across the range include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, dual-zone climate control, LED headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, SmartKey keyless entry, push-button start and a rear-view camera.
Toyota also equipped the SUV with an extensive safety package, including Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), hill-start assist and multiple airbags.
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While the entry-level Active variant targets urban motorists seeking reliability and efficiency, the Comfort model adds all-wheel-drive capability, heated front seats, roof rails and additional convenience features for customers who frequently travel outside city limits.
The flagship Limited variant comes with a larger 12.8-inch infotainment screen, panoramic sunroof, premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats and seat heating, offering a more luxurious driving experience.
Ajayi described the new RAV4 as more than a routine upgrade, noting that the improvements are both visible and practical.
“This is not a minor refresh. The upgrades are evident in the technology, interior refinement, driving experience and overall convenience offered to customers,” he said.
To strengthen ownership confidence, Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria said the vehicle is supported by a robust after-sales ecosystem comprising trained technicians, genuine parts inventory and service centres in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt. The company plans to expand its authorised service network to 75 locations nationwide by March 2027.
The launch has already generated strong market interest, with several customers placing confirmed orders ahead of the official unveiling.
According to Ajayi, the early demand reflects a growing shift among Nigerian buyers towards brand-new vehicles backed by manufacturer warranties and structured after-sales support, rather than used imports with uncertain histories.
Managing Director of CFAO Mobility, Denis Martin, said Nigeria’s inclusion in the global launch schedule demonstrates the progress made by Toyota-by-CFAO Nigeria in building world-class sales and service infrastructure.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is now available at Toyota-by-CFAO showrooms in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, with financing options offered through partner institutions. A public launch event featuring test drives and on-site vehicle orders is scheduled for June 11 at the company’s Victoria Island showroom in Lagos.
Toyota By CFAO Launches 2026 RAV4 in Nigeria, Ends Long Wait for Latest Global Model
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Auto
Carloha Rides High, Plans New EV for Nigeria After Winning Global Honours
Carloha Rides High, Plans New EV for Nigeria After Winning Global Honours
Carloha Nigeria, the authorised dealer of Chery vehicles in Nigeria, is strengthening its position in the country’s automotive industry after clinching two prestigious global awards as it unveils plans to introduce another electric vehicle (EV) into the market.
iCAUR (iCAR) is a global youth-oriented electric vehicle brand under the Chery Group, which was developed in partnership with SmartMi Tech. The brand is focused on stylish designs and smart mobility and it is currently expanding across international markets.
Carloha Nigeria received the New Star Award and Brand Leap Contribution Award at the 2026 Chery Global Summit and Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in China. This is in recognition of its rapid market growth, brand development efforts and customer engagement initiatives.
The international recognition comes as Carloha intensifies its push into Nigeria’s growing EV space, buoyed by the positive reception of the iCAUR brand among motorists, technology enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers.
Managing Director, Sola Adigun, said the awards validate the company’s commitment to delivering world-class automotive solutions, while the growing acceptance of iCAUR reflects increasing consumer interest in innovative and sustainable mobility options.
“The Nigerian automotive market is evolving, and consumers are becoming increasingly receptive to innovation, sustainability and smart mobility solutions.
“The success of iCAUR has encouraged us to continue investing in the future of electric mobility in Nigeria,” he said.
Adigun disclosed that plans for the launch of a new EV are at an advanced stage, describing the move as part of a broader strategy to expand consumer choice and support Nigeria’s transition to cleaner transportation.
He added, “Winning these awards on the global stage is a strong endorsement of the work our team has done in building the Chery brand in Nigeria.
“It also demonstrates that Nigerian automotive businesses can compete successfully with the best across the world.”
According to him, Nigerian customers are increasingly demanding vehicles that combine intelligent safety technologies, premium comfort, fuel efficiency and modern design, noting that these qualities were prominently showcased by Chery at the Beijing exhibition.
“Beyond selling vehicles, our goal is to provide mobility solutions that meet the evolving needs of Nigerian families and businesses while aligning with global trends in sustainability, innovation and customer experience,” Adigun said.
At Auto China 2026, Chery also showcased its latest safety and intelligent mobility technologies, including the all-new TIGGO V and its AiMOGA robotics innovations, under its new global brand philosophy, “For Family.”
General Manager, Felix Mahan, said the awards underscore Carloha Nigeria’s commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, adding that the company’s CarlohaCare 6-6-7 package continues to offer customers industry-leading aftersales support through a six-year warranty, six years of free service and a seven-day repair promise.
“This recognition reflects growing international confidence in both the Nigerian market and our ability to deliver world-class customer experience. We remain committed to making vehicle ownership easier, more affordable and more rewarding for our customers,” Mahan said.
With fresh global recognition and an expanded EV strategy, Carloha is positioning itself as one of the key players driving the future of sustainable mobility in Nigeria.

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