Transporters cry foul over alleged diversion of N10bn COVID-19 bailout – Newstrends
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Transporters cry foul over alleged diversion of N10bn COVID-19 bailout

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There is growing discontent among transport operators over reported disbursement of N10bn funds promised them by the Federal Government to ease the effects of last year’s prolonged COVID-19 lockdown on their business.

While the Federal Government claimed to have released the money to transporters, luxury bus owners and city bus operators said none of them had received the intervention funds.

The transport operators said they had continued to wait for the funds in vain after submitting documents to the Federal Government for verification as requested.

PTONA had earlier in 2020 estimated a loss of about N200bn in revenue just in 10 weeks of the lockdown.

Another major operator who spoke under anonymity said that when they approached the Federal Ministry of Transportation, they were directed to the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

On getting to the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, the source disclosed that they were told that the money had been disbursed to Keke-Napep riders

Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria also claimed its members had not benefited from the fund.

Confirming their position, the National President of RTEAN, Alhaji Musa Muhammed, said he was not aware of the funds disbursement.

“I am not aware of any N10bn palliative. We have not seen anything. The only money which some of our members got was the N30,000 MSME fund and not many people got the money,” Muhammed said.

It was learnt that among the operators who have been asked to submit documents for verification were the interstate luxury bus operators under the aegis of the PTONA.

Having lost billions of naira due to the 98-day lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they had expected they would deploy the palliative to beef up their business but they are yet to benefit.

In a letter dated March 28, 2021 addressed to the Minister of State for Transportation,

Gbemisola Saraki, and signed by the Deputy President, Emeka Mamah, the group pleaded for the verification of two key issues as it concerned the funds.

First, PTONA asked the minister to correct apparent confusion in treating the N10 billion covid-19 palliative fund approved for Road Transporters as MSME Survival fund domiciled with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.

The group also asked for immediate disbursement of the N10bn COVID-19 palliative fund to their members to prevent imminent collapse of interstate passenger transport companies in Nigeria.

According to PTONA, efforts made to secure an appointment to pay a working visit to the minister to discuss issues relating to the undue delay in disbursing the funds to road transporters was not granted.

“However, in your reply to our letter dated 3rd March, 2021 (a copy is attached) our request for the visit was neither approved nor rejected. On the contrary, you simply advised our association to redirect its inquiry regarding the fund to the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment since the intervention fund for the transport sector had been released to the ministry by the Federal Government,” the group stated in the letter.

Lamenting further, PTONA insisted that the N10 billion Covid-19 palliatives fund approved by the Federal was totally different from the N60 billion MSME Survival Fund domiciled with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, adding that “the N10 billion COVID-19 Palliative Fund was meant to assist road transporters to resuscitate their businesses that were on negative income throughout the 14 weeks that the country was on complete lockdown for all interstate passenger movement due to Covid-19 Pandemic.”

“On the other hand, an aspect of the N60 billion MSME Survival Fund domiciled with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment is a one-off grant designed to support vulnerable Micro Small and Medium Enterprises in meeting up their salary obligations under the Federal Government’s National Economic Sustainability Plan (NESP),” PITONA added.

Several efforts were made to reach the Director of Press in the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Mr Eric Ojiekwe, but he neither answered his calls nor responded to a text message sent to his phone.

 

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Massilia Motors launches new Mitsubishi L200 with low fuel consumption, advanced engineering 

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Massilia Motors launches new Mitsubishi L200 with low fuel consumption, advanced engineering 

L-R: CFAO Nigeria Country Delegate, Mr. Regis Tromeur; GMD/CEO, Kewalram Chanrai Group, Mr Siva Subramaniam; Deputy Managing Director, CFAO Mobility, Mr. Kunle Jaiyesimi; Managing Director of Massilia Motors, Olivier Lamoure; and General Manager, Sales, Massilia Motors, Mr. Tunji Itiola at the launching of the All-New Mitsubishi L 200 at Eko Atlantic, Lagos …on Friday, April 11, 2025

 

The all-new Mitsubishi L200 pickup, a 2025 edition, has been formally unveiled in Nigeria, courtesy of Massilia Motors.

Massilia Motors, the sole distributor of Mitsubishi brand of vehicles in the country and a joint venture with CFAO Mobility, says the new L200 pickup is coming with low fuel consumption, advanced engineering and ultra-tough characteristics, making it a versatile vehicle for various terrains and conditions.

The unveiling event took place at Eko Atlantic, Victoria Island, Lagos, where guests had the opportunity to experience the new pickup firsthand.

The new L200, already recognized worldwide and well-known in Nigeria, has been completely redefined in this latest model.

It features advanced engineering and ultra-tough characteristics, making it a versatile vehicle for various terrains and conditions.
The L200 is equipped with an All-New Chassis frame for improved ride and handling; lessen noise and vibration; durability; anti-corrosion; crash safety; better body size and wider interior.
The chassis frame is built with high-tensile materials to withstand tough terrain and ensure reliable performance in any condition, complemented by a redesigned suspension system.

Inside, the L200 is designed for comfort, even during long trips, with advanced technology and a thoughtfully crafted living space, according to Massilia.
The new suspension fine tune has some unique features that include Front – Double wishbone that is optimized longer stroke by geometry; Rear – Leaf spring (3 layers) with less friction.

The vehicle, powered by a six-speed manual gearbox on a 2.4-litre petrol engine, features a distinctive grille and appearance, and has won several awards, including the 2024-2025 Japan Car of the Year Design Award.
Built on inherited Pajero DNA with 4WD performance for reliability and ruggedness, Mitsubishi’s Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution applies brake force while cornering to maintain vehicle stability and optimize traction, preventing torque loss.

The system adjusts engine output and applies brake force to spinning wheels as needed, always ensuring driver safety.
Mitsubishi has also focused on driver and passenger comfort with newly designed seats inspired by their rally heritage, providing excellent body support.

The upgraded air-conditioning system offers adjustable airflow for personalized comfort. Ample storage space and a bucket space of up to 2340mm x 1580mm makes it ideal for various tasks.

Other interior features include a 9-inch infotainment system and a new 7-inch multi-information display and outstanding cabin comfort because of better head and leg room for passengers.

The vehicle is designed to provide slip-resistant footing for safe and easy entry and exit, even in wet or slippery conditions.

The rear bumper corner allows for more foot space when the tailgate is open, featuring the largest step area in its segment.
Managing Director of Massilia Motors, Olivier Lamoure, highlighted the fact that the new L200 comes with lower fuel consumption aided by improved Aero Dynamics with roof and rear spoiler combination.

Another striking feature of the new vehicle is its enhanced cargo and payload capacity with improved turning radius of 6.2m from 5.9m, as well as higher ground clearance from 200mm to 212mm all to guarantee better driver manoeuvrability.
Lamoure added, “At Massilia Motors, it is important for us to give the keys to the customer so they can personally test the vehicle and share their impressions.

“Whether for personal use or for their business, performance and reliability are proven in the field, not in a showroom. This hands-on approach allows customers to truly experience the vehicle’s capabilities.”

Massilia Motors says it also offers prospective customers free test drive which can be booked via www.mitsubishi-motors.com.ng , where further information about the vehicle can also be obtained.
The L200 has a rich history, tracing its roots back to the Forte launched in 1978. Over the past 47 years, about 5.7 million units have been produced across five generations and sold in approximately 150 countries. The latest model continues this legacy with its high-rigidity RISE body, designed to absorb energy and minimize cabin deformation in the event of a crash.
The L200 has also received international accolades, including a five-star rating from Latin NCAP and recognition at the 2024 Arab Car of the Year awards, where it was named “Best Mid-size Pickup”.

Massilia names variants available for the Nigerian market as the Double Cab and Single Cab, adding that it offers genuine spare parts, after-sales services, and a warranty of three years or 100,000km.

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Exciting moment as Mikano Motors presents Changan Eado Plus to reigning Miss Nigeria

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L- R: Mrs Ego Boyo (Director, Miss Nigeria Org.), Mr Omar Karameh (Group Executive Director, Mikano International, Mr Mofid Karameh (Chairman, Mikano International), Ms Doris Ogah (45th Miss Nigeria), Mr Peng Tao (Executive VP, Changan Auto), Mr Tom Yin (Vice General Manager, Changan MEA), Mrs Rita Dominic (Chairman, Miss Nigeria Org.) at the presentation of Eado Plus Luxury Sedan (Changan) for the 45th Miss Nigeria by Mikano Motors in Lagos.

Exciting moment as Mikano Motors presents Changan Eado Plus to reigning Miss Nigeria

 

Mikano Motors has presented a brand new car, Changan Eado Plus, to the newly crowned 45th Miss Nigeria, Doris Ogah, a lawyer and model.
The auto firm said the handover of the luxury sedan held in Lagos on Monday officially marked the beginning of the partnership between Mikano Motors and the Miss Nigeria pageant, exemplifying Nigerian women’s beauty, strength and resilience.
The Eado Plus, known for its stylish design and advanced features, according to Mikano, symbolises the values of innovation and excellence that is synonymous with the Changan brand, an ideal match for the current Miss Nigeria.
Executive Director of Mikano International, Joelle Haykal, said at the pre-handover press briefing, “This partnership represents our commitment to empowering women and supporting local talent within our communities, in line with Miss Nigeria’s theme for this year, ‘Cultural Heritage and Community Engagement’.
“This has always been a mainstay for the Mikano Group and is evident in much of our efforts to give back to the society.”
“We are very excited to present the Eado Plus to Ms Ogah, who embodies the spirit of Miss Nigeria.”
In his speech at the event, Executive Director of Mikano International Limited, Omar Karameh, emphasized the company’s broader commitment to Nigeria’s cultural and creative sectors.
He said, “The Miss Nigeria pageant is more than a beauty contest—it is a launchpad for future female leaders. Mikano is proud to support platforms that celebrate intelligence, leadership, and resilience.
“We trust that these values will continue to inspire generations of Nigerian women.”
The reigning queen expressed excitement at winning the pageant and receiving the Eado Plus.
“Winning the Miss Nigeria title has been a life-changing experience, and I am deeply grateful to Mikano Motors for this incredible gift.
“This car is not just a means of transportation; it represents the journey ahead—one filled with purpose, advocacy, and impact.
“I am excited for all that is to come and look forward to using my reign to inspire and empower young girls across Nigeria. Thank you, Mikano, for this generous support.”
Legendary Nollywood queen and Chairman of the Miss Nigeria board, Mrs Rita Dominic Anosike, said, “Reviving the Miss Nigeria franchise has never just been about a pageant—it’s about building a platform that celebrates the brilliance, ambition, and cultural pride of the Nigerian woman.
“With partners like Mikano, we are not just crowning queens—we are empowering a generation and ensuring that Miss Nigeria is a title and a platform for real impact. We are excited about this new chapter and the journey ahead.”
Vice General Manager of Changan, Middle East and Africa, Tom Yin, celebrated the growing partnership with Mikano and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the Nigerian market.
He said, “Changan has been dedicated to enriching human life and leading automotive civilization for over 163 years. Our collaboration with Mikano International allows us to connect deeply with Nigeria’s dynamic culture and invest in sustainable growth.
“Our support for Miss Nigeria aligns perfectly with our global ‘Her Power’ initiative, which aims to inspire women to pursue their dreams and lead with confidence across all fields.”
Chairman of Mikano International, Mofid Karameh, in his address reaffirmed the company’s unwavering support Nigeria’s cultural, creative, and entertainment sectors, highlighting the Miss Nigeria pageant as a powerful platform for celebrating and empowering the next generation of female leaders.
He emphasised that the Miss Nigeria brand extends far beyond pageantry, serving as a launchpad for women who embody strength, intelligence, leadership, and cultural heritage.
“The legacy of Miss Nigeria is not just about beauty; it’s about strength, intelligence, and leadership,” Karameh said.

“We believe that this platform can mould the future female leaders of our country. By celebrating these remarkable women, we pave the way for a brighter and more empowered Nigeria.”

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Parents hail Toyota (Nigeria) Limited at 18th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest Award ceremony

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Parents hail Toyota (Nigeria) Limited at 18th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest Award ceremony

Parents whose children recently won prizes at the 18th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest award ceremony have expressed profound gratitude to Toyota (Nigeria) Limited for giving the young stars the platform to show their talents and excel.

The presentation of awards by the TNL to the latest winners of the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest will remain memorable in the minds of the beneficiaries, parents and teachers of the pupils.
The event held specifically on March 8, 2025 at the corporate headquarters of the company in Lekki, Lagos, was indeed a day of celebration and glitz for all.
It was exciting not only for all the winners but their parents, siblings, well-wishers and staff of Toyota (Nigeria) Limited that graced the occasion.

Mr Shoniran, who spoke on behalf of all parents present, he expressed a deep appreciation for what Toyota had done for the children.

He said, “The exposure would further help to boost the confidence of the budding artists.”

He added that TNL had given all winners a strong pedestal to showcase their talent while thanking the company for this life-time opportunity and the valuable gifts presented to them.

Three (3) children emerged national winners from each category, making it nine (9) winners altogether at the national level and were properly celebrated and given awards.
The award was keenly contested in three categories vis: 7 years and under; 8 – 11 years and 12 -15 years.
A total of 680 (Six hundred and eighty) children were recorded to have taken part in the contest at the competition centres in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.
Entries (drawings) of winners from over 92 countries (including Nigeria) around the world are sent to Japan to compete at the global level.
Managing Director of Toyota (Nigeria) Limited, Mr Kunle Ade-Ojo, in his welcome address, congratulated all winners, saying, “The annual Toyota Dream Car Art Contest is a keenly contested competition by children from all over Nigeria and it is one of the Corporate Social responsibility activities of the company that has won the heart of many children in the nation.
“TNL is happy to organise this annual event as it presents the opportunity for budding artists to express their ideas in living colours.
“It is a medium to help them build their confidence in the expression of arts and to create lasting memories with and for them; sweet memories and a lasting relationship with the brand.”
He commended all winners for earning a place in the keenly contested and coveted competition.
Dai Zi Wen came first in the Age 7 and under category; Ethan Oluwafolahanmi Enilolobo emerged second, while Oritsetsemaye Eguando came third.
Nina Adanna Nwamuo came first in the 8 – 11 years category; Precious Chidera Aroh came second while Gabrielle Silver Oludayo came third.
In the 12 –15 years category, Shalom Jesujuwon Shoniran came first; Samuel Chima Okonkwo came second, while Jasmine Xiaoli Deng came third.
All winners made a detailed presentation of their artwork which typified futuristic and ingenious ideas, geared towards making the world a better place to live in.
All the winners were presented with a high-quality personal computer laptop and loads of corporate gifts. Responding on behalf of all the winners, Nina Nwamuo thanked Toyota (Nigeria) Limited for providing all contestants such a veritable platform to express their God-given talent.
She also thanked their Art teachers and parents for their guidance, support and encouragement.
She expressed gratitude for the laptop gifts and other corporate goodies that the TNL gave them.
Nwamuo prayed that TNL would “grow from strength to strength”.
Some Art teachers that have consistently over the years helped to shape the style, quality of artwork and guided the children in actualizing their ideas on paper were also recognized. One of such Art teachers is Mr. Oserogho Ojeagbega who also tutored Oluwademilade David Odumuboni, the gifted boy artist that won on the global stage at the 16th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest.
Some other art teachers that were similarly recognized were Mrs. Oluwafunmilayo Arabambi Daramola, Mr. Oluwatobi Famuyiwa, Mrs. Edith Odedokun and Mr. Samuel Allen-Taylor. Each of the five teachers went home with a commendation plaque and N250,000 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand naira) for their commitment to the contest over the years.
The event also featured a special celebration of the birthday of one of the winners, Samuel Okonkwo, whose birthday it was on the Awards ceremony day, 8th March, 2025.
TNL presented him with a birthday cake which he cut with glee and the support of his happy parents, joined by Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo, MD, TNL, while the birthday song was sung for him by all attendees.
He said, “Toyota made my birthday extra special for me and I will never forget today as long as I live. Thank you, Toyota Nigeria. You are simply the best.”

The ceremony ended with an elaborate entertainment for all that attended, and everyone went home with a corporate gift.

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