By Moses Akaigwe
Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM) was one of the biggest winners at the 2024 Nigerian Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Auto Awards held on December 11, 2024, at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The Managing Director of Lanre Shittu Motors was honoured as the 2024 Personality of the Year in recognition of his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s automotive industry.
The company’s JAC trucks also won the Heavy Duty Truck of the Year category
The late founder of the company, Alhaji Olanrewaju Shittu, was also celebrated posthumously for his pioneering role in shaping Nigeria’s auto sector, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
A major highlight of the evening was Mikano Motors’ Changan CS55, which clinched the highly coveted 2024 Car of the Year Award, beating strong contenders like the Toyota Corolla and Kia Rio.
Other notable winners included Globe Motors, which was recognized as the Most Resilient Company of the Year, while Coscharis Motors secured multiple accolades, including Multi-Luxury Brand of the Year and Luxury SUV of the Year for the Range Rover Autobiography.
Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL) was named Auto Company of the Decade, cementing its status as a key player in the Nigerian auto market.
CFAO also bagged multiple awards, including: Outstanding After-Sale Service; Product Launches of the Year for the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Suzuki Vitara and Most Enterprising Auto Company
Additionally, Chief Chidi Anyaegbu (MFR), founder of Chisco Motors, was celebrated as the Transport Icon of the Year, while Mrs. Karima Okunola of Mikano Motors was honored as the Auto Marketing Manager of the Year.
Nigeria’s first indigenous automaker, Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, was applauded for its pioneering role in local vehicle production. Nord Motors received recognition for its CNG-powered Mini Bus Brand and launch innovation.
Weststar’s Mercedes-Benz S-Class won the prestigious Luxury Car of the Year Award, further solidifying Mercedes-Benz’s dominance in the luxury segment.
Dangote Sinotruk was named Heavy Duty Truck Manufacturer of the Year, while Lanre Shittu Motors’ JAC trucks once again won the Heavy Duty Truck of the Year category, showcasing their reliability and leadership in the commercial truck segment.
Carloha, through its successful handling of the Chery brand, was adjudged the Most Innovative Auto Company of the Year.
The 2024 NAJA Auto Awards celebrated companies and individuals for their dedication to providing high-quality vehicles, excellent after-sales services, and innovative solutions, which have strengthened their reputation in Nigeria’s competitive automotive market.
The event underscored the resilience, innovation, and growth of Nigeria’s auto sector, while honoring leaders and organizations driving excellence and transformation in the industry