Transport moguls shift focus to vehicle assembling amid declining passenger turnout

2026-03-20 - 08:44

By Theodore Opara Several prominent Nigerian transport magnates are diversifying into vehicle assembly as they look for new ways to sustain their businesses amidst a significant drop in road passenger traffic. Over the past few years, at least four major transport executives have ventured into vehicle assembly, signalling a new chapter in the country’s transportation industry. These business leaders, who have decades of experience in the transport sector, are focusing on assembling commercial vehicles designed specifically for their operations. Their goal is to meet the evolving needs of the transportation industry while also creating jobs for Nigerian youth. Among the transport moguls investing heavily in vehicle assembly are Mr. Frank Nneji, founder of ABC Transport Plc; Chief Chidi Anyaegbu, founder of Chisco Transport; Mr. Chidi Ajaere, CEO of God is Good Motors; and Chief Godwin Ubaka Okeke, founder of GUO Transport who bought over ANAMMCO. These executives are channelling their wealth of knowledge into building high-quality vehicles that can stand the test of time and improve the efficiency of their transportation services. ABC Transport’s Chairman, Nneji, oversees Transit Support Services Ltd, which assembles Shacman trucks, while Chisco Motors founder Chief Anyaegbu has set up an assembly line for Yutong buses in Nigeria. Jet Systems, led by Ajaere, is producing eco-friendly pickups and minibuses powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and Okeke’s GUO Transport is focusing on assembling durable pickup trucks. These efforts have already paid off as their brands are now leaders in various sectors. From heavy-duty trucks to minibuses, these vehicles are becoming essential to Nigeria’s haulage, construction, logistics, and mass transit industries. Their trucks, particularly, have found favor with transporters, construction companies, and even large organizations like the Dangote Group. Yutong buses, for example, have become the dominant coach brand in Nigeria, overtaking well-established European brands like Mercedes-Benz and Volvo in popularity. This success has been fuelled by the local assembly of these vehicles, which has drastically reduced costs and improved availability for local businesses. In an official statement, Chisco Motors confirmed the commencement of their vehicle assembly venture this year. They are now assembling Yutong luxury buses and Sinotruk trucks, in addition to offering a range of other top Chinese commercial vehicles. This move aims to ensure the continued sustainability of their fleet and introduce new transport services. One innovative initiative by Chisco Motors is the Drive-To-Own franchise, which allows carefully selected captains to operate these newly assembled vehicles. This initiative is set to deploy 80 buses and 40 trucks that will connect the southeastern region with the northern part of Nigeria, and provide premium services on the Lagos-Accra West Coast route. At a recent event in Lagos, Chisco Group Chairman, Anyaegbu, spoke about his long-term vision for the industry. He recalled his early days as a transporter in 1981, when he saw the business not as a profitable venture but as one that would create jobs and positively impact the economy. He also emphasized the importance of making investments that not only benefit the transport sector but also improve the lives of Nigerians. Anyaegbu’s son, Mr. Obinna Anyaegbu, Managing Director of Chisco Transport, reiterated their commitment to meet the diverse transportation needs of Nigeria. The Drive-To-Own initiative has received praise from those who have been trained under the programme. The new drivers, known as “captains,” are now ready to operate with a focus on safety and customer service. The luxury buses come equipped with top-tier amenities, including comfortable seating, phone charging points, and on-screen entertainment, while the trucks are designed with bed space for drivers to rest. The newly established Chisco Auto Assembly Plant, located in Surulere, Lagos, is expected to attract significant attention from other transporters and logistics companies who are looking to upgrade their fleets with durable, cost-effective vehicles. As these transport moguls continue to innovate, the shift towards local vehicle assembly in Nigeria may just be the catalyst needed to further modernise and elevate the country’s transportation industry. Vanguard News