Toyota Nigeria honours stakeholders at 2025 awards night, celebrates excellence, loyalty

Toyota (Nigeria) Limited (TNL) hosted a glittering evening of appreciation and celebration at its 2025 Awards Night, bringing together dealers, customers, government representatives, and media personnel who have been instrumental in the company’s sustained leadership in Nigeria’s automotive sector.

The event, held at The Podium, Lekki, Lagos, underscored TNL’s commitment to rewarding loyalty, fostering strategic partnerships, and reflecting on its contributions to the nation’s economy.

During his keynote address, Managing Director Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo paid heartfelt tribute to Toyota Nigeria’s broad network of patrons and strategic allies.

“We have come a long way together,” Ade-Ojo told an audience of over 500 guests. “Our relationship with our customers is one of mutual benefits and shared progress. We do not take your loyalty and patronage for granted, and we remain fully committed to continuously improving our operations and promptly responding to your evolving needs.”

Mr. Ade-Ojo highlighted Toyota’s core mission of delivering “a measurable and memorable motoring experience,” citing the company’s reputation for supplying quality vehicles supported by dependable after-sales service, genuine spare parts, and the most extensive dealership network in the Nigerian auto industry.

“In fact, we remain the only auto brand in Nigeria with such a comprehensive and strategic dealer network,” he noted. “This has enabled us to create multiple customer touchpoints across the country, particularly in the after-sales segment of the value chain.”

Acknowledging the dedication of Toyota Nigeria’s employees, Ade-Ojo praised the company’s “well-trained and committed workforce operating across all regions of this nation.”

He underscored TNL’s identity as a proudly Nigerian enterprise, reminding attendees that the company has consistently fulfilled civic responsibilities and supported key government institutions.

READ ALSO: Globe motors, Coscharis, Toyota, Weststar shine at 2024 NAJA Auto Awards

“We have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s economy not only by fulfilling our civic duties but also by supporting agencies such as the Nigerian Customs Service,” he said. Ade-Ojo commended the current leadership of the Customs Service for streamlining business operations, prompting a round of applause from the audience.

He reaffirmed Toyota Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to nation-building. “We will always strive to fulfill our obligations to the government for the betterment of our dear country,” he declared, drawing enthusiastic support from stakeholders who echoed the importance of public–private collaboration in bolstering the national economy.

Perhaps the most poignant moment of the evening came when Ade-Ojo paid tribute to Toyota Nigeria’s Board Chairman, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, lauding him as “a living legend” and the visionary force behind the company’s success.

“This company—this iconic business model—was nurtured under your visionary leadership,” the Managing Director said, his voice resonant with admiration. “Your business acumen, administrative brilliance, and values of discipline, diligence, and innovation have inspired generations of professionals.

“We pray for your continued good health and strength as you guide us to greater heights.” Chief Ade-Ojo, visibly moved, accepted the tribute to a standing ovation, underscoring a legacy that has spanned decades in the Nigerian automotive landscape.

READ ALSO: Toyota motor show returns to Lagos with discounts, free diagnostics

For consistently purchasing the highest number of Toyota vehicles over the past five years, Zenith Bank Plc was declared the winner of the Evergreen Customer of the year award—and walked away with a brand-new Toyota Rumion valued at over ₦40 million.

In delivering the award, Ade-Ojo praised Zenith Bank’s unwavering loyalty: “Your commitment to Toyota has been extraordinary, and we are honored to celebrate your long-standing support.”

Runners-up in the Customer of the Year category included: First Runner-Up: AGL Motors, awarded N10 million in cash; Second Runner-Up: Mota Engil, awarded N7.5 million in cash, and Third Runner-Up: Enugu State Government, awarded N5 million in cash.

In line with TNL’s philosophy of recognizing all contributors to its ecosystem, three outstanding automotive journalists were honored for their dedication and excellence in 2024.

Theodore Opara, Motoring Editor, Vanguard Newspaper, received the Journalist of the Year Award for his incisive reporting on industry trends and consistent coverage of Toyota’s innovations.

Rasheed Bisiriyu, Automotive Correspondent, Newstrends, was commended for his in-depth analysis and thought leadership, earning him the Most Influential Auto Journalist accolade.

Frank Kintum, Lead Writer, Transport Day, was celebrated for his investigative features on automotive policy and road safety, taking home the Excellence in Auto Reporting Award.

Each journalist spoke briefly, expressing gratitude for the recognition and their commitment to elevating public discourse around Nigeria’s transportation sector.

READ ALSO: Toyota Nigeria reaffirms market dominance, projects growth despite economic headwinds

Throughout the evening, several dealers and strategic partners took turns lauding TNL for its training programs, marketing support, and investment in workshop facilities that have enabled them to serve customers more effectively.

Mr. Chidi Okoye, Dealer Principal of Jos Motors Ltd., remarked, “Toyota’s continuous investment in dealer development has strengthened our capacity to serve customers. Tonight’s ceremony reaffirms why Toyota Nigeria remains our preferred partner.”

Government officials in attendance, including representatives from the Ministries of Transportation and Industry, Trade & Investment, commended Toyota Nigeria’s role in job creation and technology transfer.

A senior official from the Federal Ministry of Industry referred to TNL as “a shining example of how multinational corporations can operate responsibly and catalyze local growth.”

In closing, Ade-Ojo reiterated Toyota Nigeria’s vision for the year ahead: expanding market reach, introducing hybrid and electric vehicle options, and deepening partnerships with local financial institutions to offer more flexible purchase plans.

“We will continue to adapt and innovate, ensuring that every Nigerian can experience Toyota’s hallmark of quality, durability, and reliability,” he affirmed.