In a significant recognition of leadership within Nigeria's automotive landscape, two prominent figures have been honoured with top industry awards. The Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Otunba Joseph Osanipin, and the Chairman of indigenous automaker Nord Motors, Oluwatobi Ajayi, have been named the 'Auto Personalities of the Year' for the public and private sectors respectively.
Celebrating Excellence at the NAJA Awards
The prestigious accolades were presented at the 18th edition of the Nigeria Auto Journalists’ Association (NAJA) Awards ceremony. The event, a key date in the industry's calendar, was held in Lagos on 16 January 2026. The awards spotlight individuals and organisations driving progress and innovation in Nigeria's transport sector.
The organisers highlighted that the awards aim to celebrate dedication, strategic vision, and tangible contributions to the growth of the local automotive industry. The selection of Osanipin and Ajayi underscores a pivotal moment where policy direction and private enterprise are aligning to shape the future of mobility in Nigeria.
Public Sector Leadership: Otunba Joseph Osanipin
Otunba Joseph Osanipin was recognised for his transformative leadership at the helm of the NADDC. The award panel cited his strategic efforts in strengthening policy frameworks that govern the automotive industry. Under his guidance, the council has intensified its advocacy for policies that support local vehicle assembly and manufacturing.
Furthermore, his tenure has seen a strong focus on capacity building for domestic value chains, ensuring that local content and expertise are developed. A major pillar of his work has been advancing alternative energy and green mobility initiatives, directly aligning the automotive sector's growth with Nigeria's broader energy transition and sustainability goals.
Private Sector Innovation: Oluwatobi Ajayi
On the private sector front, Oluwatobi Ajayi, the visionary behind Nord Motors, was celebrated for his entrepreneurial spirit. He was honoured for driving local manufacturing and championing the 'Made-in-Nigeria' brand. Through Nord Motors, Ajayi has demonstrated a commitment to innovation, quality, and brand development, proving that a competitive automotive brand can emerge from Nigeria.
His work is seen as crucial in reducing import dependency, creating jobs, and inspiring confidence in locally assembled vehicles. The award acknowledges his role in pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the Nigerian automotive manufacturing space.
Implications for Nigeria's Automotive Future
The dual recognition of a top regulator and a leading manufacturer sends a powerful message about the desired synergy between government policy and private investment. It highlights a growing ecosystem where supportive regulations and entrepreneurial courage are both valued as essential ingredients for industrial growth.
The awards come at a time when Nigeria is actively seeking to deepen its industrial base. The honorees represent two sides of the same coin: effective governance enabling private sector innovation. Their work is expected to continue influencing the trajectory of the automotive industry, from increased local assembly to the adoption of cleaner energy solutions for transportation.
As Nigeria navigates economic diversification, the achievements celebrated at the NAJA Awards serve as a benchmark for excellence and a catalyst for further development in a critical sector of the economy.
