Changan, Jetour, Chery Battle for Nigeria’s Car-of-the-Year Crown
Nigeria’s fast-growing motoring landscape is setting the stage for one of the most competitive editions of the Nigeria Car-of-the-Year award, as three of China’s strongest automotive brands, Changan, Jetour, and Chery, go head-to-head for the coveted 2025 crown.
Their emergence as the leading contenders reflects a dramatic market shift, showcasing how Chinese manufacturers have steadily risen to dominance in the country’s automotive sector.
The Nigeria Auto Journalists’ Association (NAJA) unveiled the shortlisted models, the Changan CS55, Jetour Dashing, and Chery Tiggo 8, following a rigorous selection process that assessed design, technology, performance, consumer acceptance, safety features, and value for money. The announcement underscores the growing sophistication of Nigeria’s car buyers and the increasing presence of modern, tech-driven vehicles on Nigerian roads.
Changan’s CS55, which clinched last year’s title, returns as the defending champion. The model has earned a strong reputation among Nigerian drivers for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety systems. Jetour’s Dashing, known for its bold styling and competitive pricing, has gained significant traction over the past year, especially among young professionals and urban families seeking premium features at a moderate cost.
Chery’s Tiggo 8, celebrated for its spacious interior, strong performance, and refinement, has also grown steadily in market appeal, putting it firmly in contention for the top prize.
Industry analysts foresee a tightly contested race, noting that the expanding popularity of these brands illustrates Nigeria’s increasing shift toward high-quality, technology-driven Asian automobiles. They highlight that consumers are now prioritising modern infotainment systems, advanced driver-assist features, comfort, and long-term durability, areas where these Chinese automakers have made significant competitive gains.
The 2025 award ceremony, scheduled for 16 December at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, is expected to draw a distinguished audience, including senior government officials, leading automotive executives, diplomats, fleet managers, and top media professionals.
The event remains the most respected platform for recognising automotive excellence in Nigeria, with winners historically experiencing a major boost in consumer trust and nationwide visibility.
NAJA Chairman, Mr Theodore Opara, described this year’s lineup as a landmark moment for Nigeria’s automotive sector. “For the first time, Chinese manufacturers are not just competing, they are leading the pack,” he said. “
The quality, technology, safety, and market acceptance we’ve seen from these brands show how far Nigeria’s automotive sector has evolved in the last decade. It reflects growing confidence in new-generation global brands and Nigeria’s increasingly discerning consumer base.”
The event will also feature the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Chief Joseph Osanipin, and the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) as special guests.
Osanipin is expected to present the Council’s long-term roadmap for boosting automotive growth, including plans to deepen local assembly, expand component manufacturing, promote electric vehicle adoption, and strengthen technical capacity across the value chain.
The FRSC’s participation will reinforce national conversations on road safety, standards, and compliance. The Corps is anticipated to use the platform to advocate for a safer driving culture, promote strict adherence to vehicle safety checks, and highlight the importance of modern vehicle technologies in reducing accidents.
The Chairman of the Awards Planning Committee, Mr Frank Kintum, said preparations are in top gear and will further solidify NAJA’s reputation as the country’s most credible and unifying platform for honouring automotive excellence.
“The industry is expanding rapidly, from electric vehicles and greener technologies to stronger local assembly capabilities.
“It is essential that our awards reflect this evolving reality and continue to promote innovation, quality, and industry-wide collaboration,” he said.
As anticipation builds, observers say this year’s contest will not only determine a winner but also underline the broader transformation redefining Nigeria’s automotive landscape, one increasingly shaped by innovation, competition, and consumer-driven growth.
