Two of Nigeria’s foremost automotive sector leaders have endorsed the 2025 edition of the Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) International Auto Awards, describing the event as a powerful catalyst for industry growth, innovation, and national development.
Chairman of the Auto & Allied Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and deputy managing director of RT Briscoe Nigeria Plc,, Dr. Femi Eguaikhide, applauded NAJA for sustaining what he called one of the most credible and unifying platforms in the country’s automotive ecosystem.
According to him, the awards have consistently galvanised public interest, fostered healthy engagement among stakeholders, and celebrated organisations whose contributions continue to uplift Nigeria’s economy.
Eguaikhide, in a statement reacting on the forthcoming event, said, “The annual NAJA Awards, which aim to recognise and reward deserving organizations, have been one of the frontline platforms celebrating excellence in the industry.
“It has helped to stimulate public interest and deepen constructive engagement among stakeholders. The initiative has continued to honour the numerous contributions of auto industry players to national development. NAJA deserves all the accolades.”
His endorsement comes as the director-general of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Chief Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin, also gave his full support for the programme.
Osanipin is expected to serve as guest speaker and has confirmed his attendance at the Lagos event.
Industry observers say these endorsements underscore the growing importance of the NAJA International Auto Awards as a unifying platform that not only celebrates innovation but also strengthens policy conversations shaping the future of Nigeria’s automotive landscape.
The 2025 edition of the awards is expected to attract automakers, distributors, policymakers, and other key stakeholders as the sector continues to navigate a changing global mobility ecosystem.
NAJA has set Tuesday, December 16, 2025, for the highly anticipated 2025 International Auto Awards in Lagos.
Widely regarded as Nigeria’s most prestigious celebration of excellence and innovation in the motoring industry, the event will attract government officials, industry leaders, automakers, and media professionals.
Chairman of the planning committee, Frank Kintum, said preparations were in top gear to maintain the awards’ reputation as the industry’s gold standard.
“The NAJA Awards have become the benchmark for honouring brands, organisations, and individuals who demonstrate innovation, integrity, and excellence in advancing Nigeria’s automotive ecosystem.
This year’s edition will spotlight progress in local manufacturing, green mobility, and industry policy development,” Kintum said.
NAJA chairman, Theodore Opara, highlighted the strategic relevance of the awards to Nigeria’s national development agenda.
“As the automotive sector evolves, NAJA remains committed to supporting initiatives that align with the federal government’s vision for sustainable industrial growth.
“We are particularly delighted to have the NADDC as a central partner this year, given its pivotal role in policy formulation and innovation,” Opara noted
Chinese Trio Tops Nigeria’s 2025 Car Of The Year Race
By Cess Harmon
Nigeria’s auto industry is bracing for a high-stakes contest as three Chinese automakers, Changan, Jetour and Chery emerge as the leading candidates for the 2025 Nigeria Car of the Year award, underscoring a significant shift in consumer preference and brand dominance across the country.
The Nigeria Auto Journalists’ Association (NAJA) on recently released the finalists, naming the Changan CS55, Jetour Dashing, and Chery Tiggo 8 as the models vying for the coveted title at its annual industry awards.
The Changan CS55, which upset long-established competitors last year by beating the Toyota Corolla and Kia Rio to clinch Car of the Year, is back on the shortlist and hoping to retain its crown. But analysts say the SUV faces tougher opposition this year as Jetour and Chery gain momentum among Nigerian motorists.
The winners will be announced at the 2025 NAJA International Auto Awards, scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos. The event is recognised as one of the country’s most respected auto industry platforms, drawing policymakers, executives and motoring enthusiasts.
NAJA chairman Theodore Opara, said the finalists reflect how rapidly Nigeria’s vehicle market is changing.
“For the first time, Chinese brands aren’t just part of the competition; they are dominating it,” he said. “The level of engineering, technology and customer acceptance seen from these brands shows how dramatically the landscape is evolving.”
Opara noted that the committee placed strong emphasis on innovation, resilience, and suitability for Nigerian road conditions in selecting the final three.
The association is expected to release nominees for additional categories in the coming days. These include awards for vehicle assembly, electric mobility, aftersales service, heavy-duty trucks, logistics solutions and luxury transport.
Chairman of the Awards Planning Committee, Frank Kintum, said arrangements are nearly complete, adding that NAJA aims to deliver another credible and industry-defining edition.
“Our preparations are in full swing to ensure the 2025 ceremony maintains NAJA’s reputation as the most authoritative and unifying recognition platform in Nigeria’s automotive sector,” Kintum said. “With the industry moving into new areas like EVs and stronger local assembly, our awards must reflect that progression.”
NAJA also confirmed attendance from top government officials, including Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin, Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), and the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
Osanipin is expected to outline Nigeria’s long-term plans for boosting vehicle assembly and EV adoption, while the FRSC chief is likely to use the platform to reinforce the agency’s road safety agenda within the industry.
