Chinese truck manufacturer JAC Motors has urged the Federal Government to urgently sign Nigeria’s automotive policy into law, describing it as a critical step toward attracting foreign investment, boosting local vehicle assembly, and reducing dependence on imported used vehicles.
The call was made by JAC Motors’ General Manager, Mr. Oscar Yu, during a strategic visit to the JAC truck assembly plant operated by Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM) along the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway in Lagos. Yu emphasized that Nigeria’s population of over 200 million represents a vast, untapped market for the automotive industry. However, he noted that the absence of a legislated auto policy continues to erode investor confidence and discourage Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) from making long-term commitments in the country.
“A properly legislated automotive policy will encourage more manufacturers to invest in Nigeria,” Yu said. “This will allow for the production of affordable, brand-new trucks and ensure better returns on investment for customers.”
He stressed that Nigeria’s continued reliance on imported used vehicles stifles local industry growth, limits job creation, and undermines long-term economic development. According to him, with the right framework, Nigeria has the potential to become a truck manufacturing hub in West Africa, leveraging local talent, technical training, and supportive policies to close the gap between used and new vehicles.
Yu commended Lanre Shittu Motors for its resilience in assembling JAC trucks locally despite economic challenges. He described the company as a dependable partner and pledged continued support in areas such as technical training, spare parts supply, and after-sales service. “We take care of our partners, customers, and staff. Our products are of high quality, and that remains our biggest selling point. We are pleased with what LSM has achieved and are committed to deepening this partnership,” Yu added.
The collaboration between JAC Motors and LSM has already produced Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks fitted with advanced safety features, including Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), reflecting their commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability.
In his remarks, Mr. Taiwo Shittu, Managing Director of LSM, described JAC as the most supportive partner the company has ever worked with. “They are sincere, respectful, and always deliver on their promises. JAC understands our culture and treats us as true partners,” he said. He explained that the collaboration has enabled LSM to broaden its product range while maintaining its strong reputation for reliability in Nigeria’s automotive market.
Echoing similar sentiments, Mr. Saheed Shittu, Executive Director of Finance at LSM, hailed the visit of JAC’s top management as both “historic and strategic.” He stressed that the strengthened relationship would allow both companies to provide Nigerian customers with enhanced automotive solutions. “We remain committed to offering reliable products, genuine spare parts, and strong after-sales service, and this partnership with JAC helps us deliver on that promise,” Saheed said.
Lanre Shittu Motors currently assembles both medium- and heavy-duty JAC trucks in Nigeria and has consistently been recognized for quality, winning multiple awards at the Nigeria Auto Journalists Awards.
Industry experts believe that with the right automotive policy framework, Nigeria could replicate the success of manufacturing hubs in Asia and South America, leveraging its population size, economic growth, and strategic position in West Africa. For JAC Motors, passing the auto policy into law remains the missing link in unlocking sustainable investment, technology transfer, and large-scale job creation in Nigeria’s automotive sector.
