Dangote Group Expands Auto Production, Assembles Peugeot 3008 GT in Nigeria

Dangote Group is making significant strides in Nigeria’s automobile sector, strengthening its position as a dominant player in both the passenger car and commercial vehicle segments. The conglomerate, which holds the franchise for Peugeot and Sinotruck brands, continues to expand its operations with vehicle production at its Kaduna and Lagos plants.

In a major development, Dangote Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (DPAN) Limited has begun assembling the Peugeot 3008 GT model at its Kaduna plant. This addition reinforces DPAN’s commitment to reviving the Peugeot brand in Nigeria, which was once the country’s most popular automobile brand in the 1970s and 80s.

The Peugeot 3008 GT, equipped with a 1.6-litre high-performance turbo engine, joins DPAN’s existing lineup, which includes the Peugeot 301 Sedan and the 5008, a seven-seater SUV recognized for its spacious design and advanced technology. DPAN has also introduced the Peugeot Landtrek 4×2, a pickup truck powered by a 2.4-litre engine and featuring a rear-wheel drive system. This marks the company’s entry into the light commercial vehicle segment.

Umar Isa-Kaita, DPAN’s Chief Commercial Officer, revealed that discussions are underway with various auto companies to expand Peugeot’s sales and after-sales network. The company plans to accredit dealerships across Nigeria to improve vehicle availability and enhance customer support services.

The launch of the 3008 GT and Landtrek pickup aligns with DPAN’s commitment to broadening its locally assembled vehicle portfolio. Managing Director Ibrahim Isa Gachi had previously assured that these models would follow the Peugeot 301, which was introduced in January 2022.

With an assembly capacity of 120 vehicles per day at its Kaduna plant, DPAN is well-positioned to restore Peugeot’s former prominence in Nigeria’s automotive market. This expansion is expected to boost the industry, which has encountered considerable challenges in recent years.

DPAN operates as a joint venture between Dangote Industries Limited, the governments of Kaduna, Plateau, and Kebbi states, and Stellantis Group, the parent company of Peugeot.