Nigeria Has Potential As Global Auto Hub, says LSM MD

The Managing Director of Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM), Mr. Taiwo Shittu, says Nigeria has the potential to emerge as a global automotive manufacturing hub—if backed by the right partnerships and enabling policies.
“We can put Nigeria on the global automotive map,” Shittu said.
“With the commitment we’re seeing from JAC, and with the right policy support, we are ready to build a world-class auto manufacturing ecosystem in Lagos.”
Shittu spoke against the backdrop of a recent visit by the General Manager of JAC Motors, Mr. Oscar Yu, to LSM’s assembly facility in Lagos.
The visit, attended by LSM’s Executive Director of Finance, Mr. Saheed Shittu, marked a renewed commitment to deepening the decade-long collaboration between LSM and the Chinese auto giant.

The visit signals a shift toward deeper industrial integration, greater local content, and regional expansion. Yu, who was visibly impressed by LSM’s facilities, pointed to Nigeria’s demographics and geography as untapped assets.

“Nigeria has over 200 million people, a young workforce, and a strategic location,” he said.
“What’s missing is a unified strategy. China faced similar challenges—banning used imports, investing in local capacity—and today we’re a global player. Nigeria can follow that path.”

Shittu agreed, emphasizing that the LSM–JAC partnership extends beyond vehicle assembly. “This is about building skills, creating jobs, and positioning Nigeria as a manufacturing hub for West Africa,” he said.

According to the statement, the major theme of the visit was the need to curb Nigeria’s dependence on imported used vehicles, which both executives described as a key obstacle to industrial growth.

“You can’t build a sustainable auto sector in a market saturated with unregulated second-hand imports,” said Yu.

Shittu urged the government to implement policies that support local production. “We’re not calling for protectionism—we’re calling for fair competition,” he said. “No country has industrialised without protecting its productive base.”

Mr. Saheed Shittu was quoted as saying LSM’s vision extends well beyond the Nigerian market.

“JAC sees Lagos as the gateway to West Africa, and LSM is positioned to drive that expansion,” he said.
“Over the next five years, we aim to scale production, grow our workforce, and become a regional player.”

The statement said JAC had committed to providing technical support, workforce training, and potential credit facilities to boost LSM’s capacity and service network.
While reiterating private sector readiness, Shittu stressed that government action remains vital.

“If government brings infrastructure, regulatory clarity, and the right incentives, we’ll bring in the investment and global partnerships,” he said.
“The private sector is ready. Our partners are ready. Now Nigeria must be ready too.”

He added, “Yu’s visit marked a pivotal moment for LSM’s industrial ambitions. “This is our moment. Let’s seize it and build something the world will recognise.”

MIKE OCHONMA
EDITOR