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Nigeria’s Luxury Car Market to Experience Steady Growth Despite Rising Inflation

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Maxim Makarchuk Nigeria's luxury car market

By Maxim Makarchuk

Nigeria’s luxury car market is experiencing remarkable growth despite the challenges posed by rising inflation and economic turbulence. This is unsurprising as the industry stands as a symbol of elegance, prestige, and affluence in Nigeria’s dynamic economic landscape. According to Statista, revenue in the Nigerian luxury car market is projected to reach USD 32 million by the end of 2024. The industry is expected to have an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2028) of 14.75%, resulting in a projected market value of USD 55 million by 2028.

This exponential industry growth is driven by a potent mix of different factors, including changing customer desires, emerging trends, infrastructure development, and a shifting preference for sustainable luxury cars.

Aspiration amidst adversity

There’s an insatiable appetite for luxury goods, especially amongst the growing Nigerian middle class, who aspire despite the difficulties and see cars as a significant luxury good. The country’s economic fluctuations are no match for the allure of luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Toyota and Land Rover, currently the leading brands with over 60% contribution to the luxury cars ads on Jiji.  Luxury goods consumers prioritise symbolic consumption to showcase their success. Thus, luxury cars have become a statement of achievement, a tangible manifestation of one’s income power, and social standing in a competitive society where appearances matter.

Balance of performance, style, and affordability

In addition to the undiminishing desire for prestige and social distinction, Nigerians also want to balance style, comfort, performance, and budget. Consumers are increasingly looking for relatively affordable cars that provide a comfortable and luxurious driving experience while delivering durability, fuel efficiency, and high performance on the road. For instance, the demand for SUVs in Nigeria is skyrocketing in recent years. This can be attributed to several factors, including customers’ desire for vehicles with more space and versatility, as well as options more suitable for the country’s challenging road conditions.

A diverse nation with varied tastes

The purchasing patterns in Nigeria have led to a rich diversity in the luxury car market, catering to a wide spectrum of demographics, tastes, lifestyles, and budgets. In response, luxury car dealers and other related businesses are continually emerging to meet the needs of their discerning clientele. Nigeria’s luxury car market is poised to continue its rising as a fast-growing, multi-diverse nation, meeting the specific expectations of its affluent customers.

Urbanisation

Infrastructure investment is also driving the growth of the luxury car market in Nigeria despite the rising inflation. Nigeria’s ambitious infrastructure projects are reshaping the automotive sector, creating an environment conducive to luxury car ownership. Improved road networks and upscale residential developments are fueling the desire for high-end automobiles. A drive through the streets of Banana Island, Lagos, the upscale neighbourhood of Maitama, Abuja, and other upscale neighbourhoods exposes one to an array of luxury cars.

The need for sustainability

The country is embracing sustainable luxury just like the rest of the world, and it’s a driving force behind customer preferences. Luxury car buyers in Nigeria are increasingly drawn to eco-friendly and fuel-efficient models that offer performance without harming the climate. For instance, Tesla’s electric vehicles and BMW’s i3 are gaining popularity in the Nigerian luxury car market due to their sustainability features. Stakeholders must therefore hasten the process of infrastructural provisions for EV charging points in the country to accommodate the growing adoption of EVs. A few charging stations exist like the NADDC stations in Lagos and Sokoto, as well as privately owned stations in-office and in-home.

Demand for luxury goods undeterred by rising inflation or other macroeconomic factors

The luxury goods companies can be considered inflation-proof as the consumer is willing to pay the premium. While this strong standing may be challenged in the future if the inflation rate continues its hike, the high-end luxury market and major luxury brands remain less affected by the rates compared to the rest of the market. Despite the economic challenges posed by inflation, the luxury car market in Nigeria stands as a beacon of resilience and aspiration. It continues to defy gravity as consumers, undeterred by economic fluctuations, prioritise status, comfort, and performance on the road. Available data shows that Nigerians’ love for luxury automobiles shows no signs of slowing down. It’s no wonder why the car upgrades business is also in its booming season – old model, upgraded body.

With platforms like Cars45, Carmart, and Jiji making access to affordable cars easier for the common man, the industry is poised to continue its upward trajectory, defying odds and charting a course of steady growth. For car dealers, investors, car loan financiers, and other automotive industry players, this is a wake-up call to double up efforts to be better prepared to meet the economic and industry shakeup expected with such rapid growth.

Maxim Makarchuk is the Chief Operating Officer for Jiji and Cars45

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LASTMA to Arrest Commercial Bus Drivers for Illegal Parking, Others

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By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Commercial bus operators in Lagos State have been warned against route violations and illegal road parking across the metropolis or risk being apprehended to face the full wrath of the law.

This warning was given by the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Mr Sola Giwa, who said the government would no longer tolerate the excesses of the commercial bus drivers, especially those operating mini buses, colloquially known as Korope.

In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr Adebayo Taofiq, the Governor’s aide emphasized the paramount necessity of unwavering adherence to traffic regulations, with particular regard to unauthorized route deviations.

According to him, the new directive is in alignment with the government’s overarching initiative to instil orderliness on Lagos roadways and ensure the uninterrupted flow of vehicular movement across the metropolis.

He further articulated that LASTMA operatives have been duly mandated to escalate enforcement strategies aimed at curbing reckless driving and unlawful practices that hinder urban mobility and disrupt the city’s traffic ecosystem.

Additionally, Mr Giwa issued a categorical directive against the indiscriminate occupation of public roadways for unauthorized parking and loading activities, which significantly aggravate traffic congestion and pose substantial risks to other road users.

He emphasized that, moving forward, all commercial operators must restrict their operations to designated bus stops and terminals to avert unwarranted impediments to vehicular circulation.

“Illegal parking and flagrant route violations have metamorphosed into a grave menace in Lagos, particularly due to the arbitrary conduct of mini bus operators. Such transgressions, which impede traffic fluidity and endanger public safety, will no longer be condoned.

“LASTMA has been expressly instructed to enforce absolute compliance with extant traffic laws and to apprehend defaulters accordingly,” Mr Giwa asserted.

“Furthermore, strict adherence to designated routes is imperative for security purposes, as it acts as a deterrent against unscrupulous elements who exploit commercial vehicles, particularly Korope, for illicit activities,” he added.

In light of these directives, LASTMA enjoins all road users, especially commercial transport operators, to cooperate fully with traffic enforcement authorities by adhering strictly to stipulated regulations and fostering a culture of responsible driving.

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inDrive Rewards Drivers for Dedication at Ramadan

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By Aduragbemi Omiyale

A leading global ride-hailing platform operating in 48 countries worldwide, including Nigeria, inDrive, recently rewarded some of its drivers for being active in the month of Ramadan.

The company, through a recently concluded weeklong campaign tagged inDrive Ramadan Drivers’ Initiative in Abuja, showered gift items on its drivers.

inDrive said the campaign fostered a deeper connection with its driver community, reaffirming its mission to empower and support those at the heart of its operations.

It underscored the brand’s ongoing efforts to foster a culture of recognition, appreciation, and financial support, ensuring drivers remain at the forefront of its mission to provide fair and people-first mobility solutions.

The platform, it was learned, recognized and rewarded drivers who went the extra mile to serve riders during the holy month of Ramadan, ensuring safe and reliable transportation for passengers.

The drivers were given thoughtfully curated hampers and other items, symbolizing inDrive’s deep appreciation for their commitment and exceptional service.

They were chosen after remaining online and consistently completing rides during the period for a special contest recognizing their dedication.

Speaking on the campaign, the Country Representative of inDrive in Nigeria, Mr Timothy Oladimeji, said, “At inDrive, we recognize the dedication and resilience of our drivers, especially during significant periods like Ramadan.”

“This initiative is our way of expressing gratitude and reinforcing our commitment to their well-being and success. We believe that when drivers feel valued and supported, they are better positioned to provide excellent service to riders,” he added.

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Tanker Explosion: Lagos Promises Stronger Safety Measures

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By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The Lagos ​State government has promised to put in place stronger safety measures after a gas tanker explosion on Otedola Bridge on Tuesday night.

The incident reportedly claimed two lives and destroyed some properties in the area, including vehicles and buildings.

Reacting to the explosion, the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, expressed the regret of the state government over the widespread damage and disruption caused by the tragedy.

“Our thoughts are with those affected, and we commend the swift response of emergency services working tirelessly to manage the aftermath,” he said.

The Commissioner noted that the incident reinforces the urgent need for stricter safety protocols for heavy-duty vehicles.

“The Ministry of Transportation is also intensifying enforcement on the movement of hazardous materials, strengthening regulatory compliance, and implementing enhanced safety measures to prevent future occurrences,” he stated.

Mr Osiyemi called on “all transport operators to uphold the highest safety standards and cooperate with government efforts to safeguard lives and property,” saying, “Lagos remains committed to a safer, more resilient transport system for all.”

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