The 25th Abuja International Motorfair kicked off on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, as Cedric Autos, a subsidiary of Cedric Masters Group, officially unveiled the much-anticipated JIM-ISUZU Pickup, a rugged, technology-driven model poised to redefine Nigeria's light-duty and commercial vehicle market.
The unveiling of the JIM-ISUZU utility Pickup was performed by His Excellency, the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kasshim Shettima, represented by Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, and attracted an impressive crowd of government officials, fleet operators, transport entrepreneurs and automotive enthusiasts at the expansive exhibition ground inside Eagle Square, Abuja.
In attendance were the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh; Otunba Joseph Oluwemimo Osanipin, Director-General of the National Automotive Design & Development Council (NADDC); Chief Emma Eneukwu, Chairman of the Governing Board of the NADDC; the Nigerian Customs Service; and other government agencies and exhibitors, many of whom described the JIM-ISUZU as "the next big thing in Africa's pickup segment."
Speaking during the unveiling, Chief Anselm Ilekuba, Chairman & CEO, Cedric Motors, described the JIM-ISUZU as "the perfect fusion of Chinese engineering, Japanese technology and African resilience."
"Nigeria needs vehicles that can work as hard as its people; strong, reliable, fuel-efficient, and smart. The JIM-ISUZU is not just a pickup; it is a dependable partner for the various government institutions and agencies, SMEs, farmers, fleet managers, construction firms, and individuals who demand durability without compromising comfort," Ilekuba said.
Powered by a highly efficient diesel engine known for its low running cost, superior torque and remarkable fuel economy, the JIM-ISUZU is ideal for both urban commutes and rural operations. Key highlights include an advanced turbo-diesel powertrain optimised for Nigerian fuel quality, a reinforced ladder-frame chassis designed for heavy-duty performance, a smart digital dashboard with infotainment suite and mobile connectivity, improved suspension geometry for bad roads and off-road conditions, class-leading payload and towing capability, and affordable maintenance with nationwide service support.
During a brief test-run demonstration at the fair by the NADDC DG inside Eagle Square, the vehicle displayed smooth acceleration, stable handling, and an impressive turning radius, qualities that drew applause from the enthusiastic crowd. Barely hours after the unveiling, Cedric Motors confirmed that several corporate organisations and government agencies had already made early purchase enquiries, with flexible financing options available through local banks.
Source: Transport World NG
