The global automotive industry is rapidly shifting toward electric vehicles (EVs) as countries seek to reduce carbon emissions and meet the Paris Agreement’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
Developed economies are leading this transition, while developing countries, including Nigeria, face economic and infrastructural constraints that have slowed adoption.
Nigeria has committed to decarbonising road transportation through EV adoption.
According to the country’s Energy Transition Plan, launched in 2022, it aims for a 100% transition to electric vehicles by 2060, with Lagos State targeting 2050.
The federal government also instituted a National Action Plan for the Development of Electric Vehicles (EVDP), aiming for at least 30% of vehicles produced locally to be electric by 2032, alongside efforts to reduce reliance on imported vehicles.
Despite these policy measures, EV adoption in Nigeria is constrained by limited charging infrastructure, inconsistent electricity supply, and comparatively low economic capacity.
However, private companies have entered the market, assembling and selling EVs domestically while also producing other vehicle types such as saloon cars, SUVs, trucks, buses, and intracity three- and four-wheelers. These initiatives indicate gradual growth in Nigeria’s electric mobility sector.
This article spotlights the companies assembling electric vehicles in Nigeria and the founders and owners driving their growth.
Chidi Ajaere, founder of Jet Systems Automobile, is part of a new wave of entrepreneurs pushing electric mobility in Nigeria. He is the son of the late Edwin Ajaere, who founded God is Good Motors (GIGM), one of the country’s leading intercity transport companies.
Ajaere studied at Covenant University in Ogun State before furthering his education at Niagara College in Canada and Griffith University in Australia. After his father’s death, he returned to Nigeria to lead the family business, becoming Executive Chairman of GIGM. He also founded GIG Logistics in 2012, expanding it into Ghana, the United States, and China.
In 2018, Ajaere established Jet Systems Automobile, a Nigerian EV manufacturer providing locally assembled electric vehicles in Nigeria for public and commercial transport. The company also produces compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles at its Sangotedo assembly plant, located at KM 46, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos. The plant has an estimated annual capacity of 5,000 vehicles, with plans for expansion.
Jet Systems’ product lineup includes 14-seater electric buses, electric ambulances, and electric vans, designed to serve the needs of both public transportation and logistics sectors. The company has also partnered with the Delta State Government to roll out EVs for mass transit and build solar-powered charging stations across the state.
We Nigerians are happy, Seriously this is a welcome development, our youth will be rapidly employed into this industries, may God see us through amen!