LAGOS, Nigeria – West Africa Automotive Show (WAAS) 2026, currently underway at the Landmark Centre in Lagos, has underscored the growing influence of Chinese industries in Nigeria’s automotive sector. With the show scheduled from 12th to 14th May, it acts as an important venue for more than 350 international participants and around 6,000 visitors from 63 nations.
The exhibit also includes notable participation from Chinese experts, including Jetour and Jinan Xinghui, one of the leading manufacturers of truck components. This demonstrates a trend of increased Chinese involvement in the region’s supply chain, as a steady rise in the inflow of Chinese automobiles and replacement parts, from high-end speedometers to tough tyres, keeps transforming the Nigerian auto industry.
Peter May, Sales Manager of WAAS, spoke about the importance of the trade show in creating links between the two worlds. “We aim to enhance the connections that exist between the foreign products and the West African market, establishing links between international suppliers and key regional importers, distributors, and procurement managers,” May explained.
The economic value of this partnership was captured by Victor Sarpong, ECOWAS representative, whose views on the African automotive sector were summarised as being “immense.” As Sarpong stated, the emergence of a rapidly growing middle class and urbanisation has made Africa one of the last frontiers for global automotive development. The representative underlined the importance of having commitment, consistency, and collaboration between the government and industry.
With WAAS 2026 approaching, the strengthening of relations between China and Nigeria has ushered in a new phase of cooperation in West African automobile manufacturing.
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