Auto
Toyota, Mikano, CFAO, others win big at 2023 NAJA Awards (Full list + photos)

Toyota, Mikano, CFAO, others win big at 2023 NAJA Awards (Full list + photos)
Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL), Mikano Motors and CFAO Motors are some of the auto companies that recorded big wins at the 2023 Nigerian Auto Journalists Association (NAJA).
The event held at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos State, on Thursday saw the three auto firms carting home the biggest number of awards, winning between three and four each.
Toyota Hilux and Hiace won the pickup of the year and minibus of the year respectively. Toyota Land Cruiser also clinched the Large SUV of the year.
Mikano showroom in Victoria Island Lagos was adjusted the best car showroom of the year.
Mikano Motors was also declared the most innovative auto company. Its Changan Uni-K and Changan CS35 received the most outstanding auto design and compact SUV awards respectively.
CFAO Group won four awards with the best customer service going to Massilia Motors; Suzuki S-Presso winning the Budget Car of the Year; Mitsubishi Outlander taking the best in E-Commercial Advert.
Aissatou Diof of Suzuki By CFAO was named the General Manager of the year.
Lanre Shittu Motors and Jet Systems won two awards each. While LSM got the Truck Plant of the Year and Heavy Duty Truck best (JAC), Jet Lander pickup and Jet Mover got the honours for Jet Systems.
Nord was recognised as the Enterprising Indigenous car company of the Year 2023.
The awards were presented to the companies at a colourful ceremony attended by key stakeholders including the Director General of National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Mr Joseph Osanipin and Managing Director of TNL, Kunle Ade-Ojo.
At the award night, JAC by Lanre Shittu Motors also won the Heavy Duty Truck of the Year, while Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing won the Assembly Plant of the Year awards.
Weststar Associates Limited, authorised general distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Nigeria, won the Luxury Brand of the Year, while Auto Workshop of the Year went to RT Briscoe.
At the event, Osanipin challenged key players in the Nigerian automotive industry to think more about automotive components development and integration in assembly operations.
He said, “Today we are here to celebrate however we need to challenge ourselves with the future of the Nigeria automotive industry.
“We need to take the necessary steps to make these changes. It starts with us; we are the ones to determine where the automotive sector will be heading in Nigeria.”
Osanipin seized the opportunity to applaud NAJA for standing firm in promoting the local auto industry.
He however challenged the organisers to consider components manufacturers in future NAJA award projects.
Over 29 persons and companies who have distinguished themselves in the industry were specially recognised and honoured in different award categories.
See the list below:
2023 NAJA AWARD WINNERS
1) Budget Car of the Year
Winner: Suzuki S-Presso
2) Auto Design of the Year
Winner: Changan Uni-K
3. Heavy Duty Truck of the Year
Winner: JAC by Lanre Shittu Motors
4) Assembly Plant of the Year
Winner: Innoson
5) Luxury Brand of the Year: Mercedes-Benz
6) Auto Workshop of the Year
Winner: RT Briscoe
7) Large SUV Of The Year
Winner: Toyota Land Cruiser
8) Luxury SUV of the Year
Winner: Range Rover Autobiography)
9) Pick Up Of The Year
Winner: Toyota Hilux
10) Most Innovative Auto Company: Mikano
11) Truck Plant Of The Year: Lanre Shittu (JAC plant)
12) Online Auto Finance facilitator: Autochek
13) Minibus of the Year: Winner: Toyota Hiace
14) Most Resilient Auto Company – Recognition
A) Stallion Motors
B) Coscharis Motors
15) Transport Company of the Year: GUO
16) Auto Showroom of the Year: Mikano
17) Enterprising Indigenous car company of the Year
NORD
18) New Entrant Auto Company/Model
1) Jetour
2) Toyota By CFAO
3) Ford Territory
4) Jet Lander
19) Compact SUV of the Year
Joint winners are:
A) Changan CS35
B) Kia Sonet
20) Indigenous Passenger Bus of the Year
Jet Mover
21) Multi Brand Auto Workshop of the Year
Fixit 45
22) Outstanding E-Commercial Advert of the Year:
Mitsubishi Outlander
23) Outstanding Print Auto Advert of the Year:
JETOUR
24) Outstanding Auto Customer Service of the Year
Massilia Motors
25) Luxury Car of the Year
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
26. Outstanding Comeback if the Year
Chery By Carloha
PERSONALITY RECOGNITIONS
26) Outstanding GM of the Year Suzuki – Aissatou Diouf, GM Suzuki By CFAO
27) Autogas vehicle promoter of the year
NGEP Chairman Dr Mohammed Ibrahim
28) Auto Personality Of The Year
Chief Innocent Chukwuma (Founder/Chairman of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing)
29) CAR OF THE YEAR
Honda HR-V
Auto
Updated: NADDC, Toyota, Carloha, Weststar, LSM, Nord, others confirm 2025 Auto Summit participation

Updated: NADDC, Toyota, Carloha, Weststar, LSM, Nord, others confirm 2025 Auto Summit participation
Many bjg organisations and prominent stakeholders have thrown their weight behind the forthcoming Nigeria Auto Industry Summit (NAISU) slated for July 31st, 2025 in Lagos.
The National Automotive Design and Development Council, Toyota Nigeria Limited, Carloha, Weststar Associates Limited, Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM) and Nord are among other stakeholders that have confirmed their participation in this year’s event.
Apart from NADDC, other major organisations partnering with NAJA to host this year’s programme are the Nigeria Association of Automotive Manufacturers (NAMA) and African Association of Automobile Manufacturers (AAAM).
Riding on the huge success of the maiden edition held last year and with a lot of interest coming stakeholders and prospective participants, NAJA says the event can only get better.
NAJA in a statement gave the main theme of this year’s Summit holding in Lagos as “NIGERIA FIRST: LOCAL CONTENT AS CATALYST FOR AUTOMOTIVE ECONOMY”.
It quoted Mike Ochonma, the Summit Organizing Committee Chairman, as saying, “Last year, NAJA premiered the Nigeria Auto Industry Summit (NAISU) as a platform for stakeholders and participants to converge and critically x-ray the auto industry and proffer solutions that will take the industry to greater heights for the benefits of all players in the industry and Nigerians at large.
“For this year, critical government agencies like NADDC, Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and others have also confirmed their participation for this year’s event.
Theodore Opara, Chairman of NAJA, also lent his voice, saying, “NAISU has come to stay as evidenced by the wholehearted embrace by the stakeholders in the auto industry.
“And the interests already received this year show that this event is on the right trajectory for the benefit of all in the industry.
“Also, this year promises to radically work on entrenching local content and work more on the long-awaited Auto Industry Development Plan of the federal government, which also remains a focal point of discussions in the sector.
“This year’s NAISU promises to be a better version of last year and plans are already in top gear to ensure all expectations are met and exceeded.”
Auto
Jetour expands SUV lineup in Nigeria with feature-rich X50

Jetour expands SUV lineup in Nigeria with feature-rich X50
Jetour Nigeria has expanded its SUV lineup with the introduction of the all-new Jetour X50—a compact SUV making its debut in the Nigerian market.
Designed with a blend of innovation, comfort, and safety, the Jetour X50 promises to deliver a premium driving experience while maintaining affordability.
The stylish five-seater SUV is packed with high-end features that cater to both urban drivers and adventure seekers.
Safety at the forefront
The X50 comes equipped with a full suite of advanced safety features, including driver, passenger, and side-seat airbags, offering all-round protection.
It also includes a Vehicle Stability Control System, Electronic Parking Brake, and Auto Hold System, enhancing safety and ease of driving, especially in traffic or on inclines.
Parking and maneuvering are simplified with a 360° Surround View Camera and Parking Sensors. Additionally, Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are integrated to minimize blind spots and prevent potential collisions during lane shifts or reversing.
Other safety features include an Auto Lockout System, Automatic Door Lock, Alarm System, and Power Windows.
Smart Technology and Driver Convenience
Jetour has equipped the X50 with a range of smart technologies for an enhanced driving experience.
The SUV features Smart Entry, a Push Start button, and multiple Drive Modes (Eco, Normal, and Sport) to match varying driving preferences. Cruise Control adds further convenience on longer journeys.
In the cabin, drivers will find a 10.5-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Command capabilities. Wireless charging and a Phone Mirror function further boost tech appeal.
Luxury-Inspired Comfort and Design
With comfort in mind, the Jetour X50 offers leather seats, an electric sunroof (optional), auto air conditioning with rear vents, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
The Auto Fold Outside Rear View Mirror and LED fog lamps enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
The SUV also comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, ensuring a smooth ride and modern look.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Jetour X50 runs on a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering 115 kW of power and 230 Nm of torque.
The engine is paired with a Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), offering a responsive and fuel-efficient drive ideal for Nigerian roads.
Designed for the Nigerian Market
Measuring 4,397 mm in length, 1,841 mm in width, and 1,652 mm in height, the X50 features a bold, aerodynamic design tailored for local preferences.
Its compact size and efficient engine make it a versatile option for both city driving and weekend getaways.
The name “Jetour,” meaning “convenient travel” in Chinese, reflects the brand’s mission to provide accessible luxury and innovation to modern drivers. Jetour has already made a name for itself globally in the SUV and crossover segment.
Reliable After-Sales Support
Jetour Nigeria assures customers of dependable after-sales service, including genuine spare parts availability and dedicated technical support—further positioning the X50 as a smart and secure investment in the market.
Auto
Suzuki By CFAO wins Transport Awards, GM dedicates honours to loyal customers, team work

Suzuki By CFAO wins Transport Awards, GM dedicates honours to loyal customers, team work
General Manager of Suzuki By CFAO, Mrs Aissatou Diouf, has expressed delight over her recent “Distinguished Auto Personality Of The Year Award'” and the “Mini Bus Of The Year Award” given to the Suzuki Eeco at the last Nigeria Transport Lecture/Award held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos.
The female general manager of the enterprising Suzuki dealership said,
“Receiving the ‘Auto Personality of the Year’ award at the 11th Nigeria Transport Lecture is truly an honour that reflects not just personal recognition, but the collective success of our entire Suzuki by CFAO team.”
According to her, “this award validates our commitment to transforming Nigeria’s automotive landscape by making reliable, affordable transportation accessible to everyone.
“It reinforces our belief in our tagline… ‘There is a Suzuki for everyone’ – we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that whether you’re a small business owner, a growing family, or an entrepreneur, there’s a Suzuki vehicle that meets your specific needs.
“This recognition motivates us to continue innovating and expanding our impact in Nigeria’s transport sector, particularly in providing solutions that drive economic growth and improve mobility for all Nigerians.”
The Suzuki By CFAO boss dedicated both awards – the ‘Auto Personality of the Year’ and the Suzuki Eeco’s ‘Mini Bus of the Year’ recognition – to the team at Suzuki by CFAO sharjng the company’s vision of revolutionizing transportation in Nigeria.
“This achievement belongs to every team member who believes in delivering quality, reliability, and value to our customers.
“I also dedicate it to our loyal customers and the Nigerian market that has embraced Suzuki vehicles,” she stated.
She further declared that the Eeco’s Mini Bus Award particularly reflecting Suzuki’s commitment to the commercial transport sector as proven through its fuel efficiency, durability, and versatility that makes it an ideal solution for Nigeria’s growing logistics and passenger transport needs.
“We expect this recognition to further strengthen our position as we continue bringing innovative automotive solutions that support Nigeria’s economic development and provide sustainable transportation options for every Nigerian.”
With over 26 years of experience across several industries – technology, equipment, lift elevators, construction and automotive, Aissatou is an accomplished Pan-African business leader with a global outlook. Having worked with brands across different industries, her professionalism has been instrumental in ensuring their competitive edge is sustained for results across Africa.
During her tenure as Director of Operations, she effectively oversaw the development of the Yamaha brand in the Benin Republic and upgraded subsidiaries in 6 countries.
These countries are Senegal, Mali, Algeria, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Liberia, as well as startups in Nigeria for over 2 years. She is an innovative Corporate Executive with a focus on Operations and Finance.
She is a Senegalese national with a vast professional voyage across the African continent and France.
Aissatou Diouf is a skilled professional with an MBA in International Management from the prestigious Université Paris Dauphine. She is a member of GAIA Africa, a reputable Women in Business Club and a member of Rotary club Nigeria.
She is passionate about mentoring young female professionals, promoting both local and international women in business, women empowerment, and charity.
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