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Nigeria’s Luxury Car Market to Experience Steady Growth Despite Rising Inflation
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
By Adedapo Adesanya
A top financial institution in Nigeria, Stanbic IBTC Bank, has partnered with Autochek, an automotive technology firm, to facilitate accessible and affordable car ownership in Nigeria.
This vehicle-financing collaboration combines Stanbic IBTC Bank’s extensive financial expertise and network with Autochek’s cutting-edge technology platform and robust dealer distribution network; streamlining the car-buying process and making it more accessible and affordable for Nigerians.
The car financing programme offered through this strategic alliance provides several key advantages for customers including competitive interest rates that enhance affordability, as well as flexible repayment plans.
Within six months, the collaboration has disbursed over N4 billion in loans since its inception in August 2024 furthering empowering numerous individuals to purchase their desired vehicles.
According to the company, there are approximately N1 billion in deals that are currently being processed.
The partnership is poised for continued growth and impact on the Nigerian automotive landscape, according to Mr Olu Delano, Executive Director, Personal and Private Banking at Stanbic IBTC Bank.
He made this known while speaking at the media parley held in Lagos to engage stakeholders in the industry.
“We are incredibly excited about the tangible impact of our collaboration with Autochek. This partnership has significantly lowered the barriers to car ownership; making it a reality for many Nigerians. At Stanbic IBTC Bank, we are dedicated to providing innovative financial solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our customers.
“We are committed to the long-term success of this partnership and its contribution to the growth and development of Nigeria’s automotive industry,” he added.
On her part, Ms Mayokun Fadeyibi, Chief Operating Officer at Autochek, highlighted the transformative nature of the partnership.
“Our collaboration with Stanbic IBTC Bank has revolutionised the car-buying experience in Nigeria. By leveraging technology and strategic partnerships, we have made car ownership more accessible, convenient, and transparent.
“We share Stanbic IBTC Bank’s commitment to driving growth in the automotive sector and look forward to expanding the reach and impact of this partnership.”
The partnership comes with a swift and efficient application process, that will allow customers to enjoy a smooth and convenient experience.
Also, Autochek’s platform and extensive dealer distribution network give customers access to various vehicles, ensuring they can find the perfect car to meet their needs.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The Red Line train fares have been slashed by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, by 30 per cent to N1,000 from N1,500.
Mr Sanwo-Olu announced the cut in the fares on Tuesday during the commissioning of the Abule Egba Bus Terminal in the Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
He disclosed that the intra-city rail transport was to make life easier for residents of the metropolis, noting that his administration was to enhance seamless mass transportation from the suburb to other parts of the state.
The bus terminal is strategically situated close to Lagos Red Line corridor, reflecting the government’s commitment to continuously enhance public transportation systems, strengthening connectivity and improving the overall experience for commuters.
Business Post reports that the Abule Egba Bus Terminal has features like loading bays, a terminal building with a customer service area, a waiting area, spaces for restaurants and other commercial services, offices for ground staff, public conveniences, a water treatment plant and provision for green energy, among others.
“This is a public bus terminal that will aid seamless commuting from here to other parts of Lagos. This infrastructure reflects our commitment to continuously enhancing public transportation systems, strengthening connectivity, and improving the overall experience for commuters.
“We are dedicated to taking ongoing steps to advance and modernise transportation across the state,” Mr Sanwo-Olu disclosed, noting that efforts are being made to build two additional interchange hubs in Marina and Mile 2, while another bus terminal is at the advanced stage of construction in Iyana Ipaja axis.
He also announced that the state was expecting the arrival of new Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and electric buses by the third quarter of the year to enhance bus services, urging residents to take ownership of the projects.
“This infrastructure has been made possible through your tax contributions. I urge you to take pride in it, protect it, and ensure that it remains safe from any harm or damage.
“By safeguarding these assets, we can all benefit from their long-term value and continue to build a better future for our community,” he stated.
On her part, the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority (LAMATA), Mrs Abimbola Akinajo, said bus terminals “offer central location for passengers to board and connect to other forms of transportation.”
According to her, the Lagos State government has provided bus terminals in Ikeja, Oshodi, Ajah, Oyingbo, Yaba, Ojota, Ifako Ijaiye and now at Abule Egba, with Iyana Ipaja bus terminal to be launched soon.
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has increased fares for the Bus Rapid Transit better known as BRT across the state.
According to the Lagos State agency, an 18 per cent increment on all the routes will take effect from Monday, February 17, 2025.
This will impact Lagos commuters who already have to contend with high cost of food and energy amid a wider cost of living crisis in the country. Businesses are also not exempt as many workers commute to their various destinations via BRT buses.
“Please be informed that there will be an 18 percent increase in the bus fare on all Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) schemes,” part of the notice read.
“The fare increase is because of the increase in the cost of operations and the need to ensure that buses keep running and guarantee your movement around Lagos,” it added.
LAMATA called for the “understanding and cooperation” of passengers amidst the increment.
The Lagos State government had in November 2023 cancelled the 50 per cent transport fare discount on all BRT and reverted to the old prices.
“The 50 per cent rebate in transport fare in the regulated transport system in Lagos ends on Sunday,” LAMATA said then. “The statement informed commuters that starting “from Monday, November 6, 2023, transport fare will return to the pre-2nd August 2023 rate.”
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had in July of that year reduced the transport fares for the state-owned buses and commercial buses by 25 per cent on all routes.
The moves were parts of efforts to cushion the impacts of the removal of fuel subsidy by the President Bola Tinubu government.
Mr Sanwo-Olu also said his administration was expanding its fleet of staff buses for workers in the Lagos State Public Service.
He said that the buses are ready and will be deployed through the office of the Head of Service of the state.
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