Vintage car community Lagos calls for government and private sector support to develop classic car exhibitions into tourism and cultural attractions across Nigeria and West Africa

A growing vintage car community in Lagos has called on both government and private sector stakeholders to support the transformation of classic car exhibitions into viable tourism and cultural attractions across Nigeria and the West African region.

Also read: Africa Business Tourism & MICE Masterclass 2026: Driving Growth and Innovation

Members of the Classic Cars Club of Nigeria made the appeal during their “Classic Cars & Coffee Drive” event, where they highlighted the steady growth of the community since its inception in 2016.

According to Progenitor-member Mr. Dapo Otunla, the group has expanded into a network of over 120 members and continues to gain momentum through regular events and engagements.

The vintage car community Lagos initiative has become known for hosting themed gatherings such as Independence Day drives and Father’s Day exhibitions, which attract both automobile enthusiasts and members of the public.

These events have helped to build a culture around classic car appreciation while fostering social interaction among participants.

Otunla explained that beyond major exhibitions, the club organises informal meet-ups under the “Classic Cars and Coffee” concept, designed to strengthen community ties and encourage wider participation, including individuals who may not own vehicles but share an interest in vintage automobiles.

He noted that the platform has also helped increase visibility for collectors who traditionally keep their vehicles in private storage, creating opportunities for collaboration and shared experiences within the ecosystem.

The group is now exploring expansion beyond Nigeria, with plans to host cross-border exhibitions that would promote regional integration and cultural exchange among classic car enthusiasts across West Africa.

According to Otunla, such initiatives would require government backing to ease logistics and facilitate participation.

He emphasised that with adequate support, Nigeria could position itself as a hub for classic car tourism, attracting visitors and participants from neighbouring countries while showcasing its automotive heritage.

The club also called for policy interventions such as import duty waivers, tax incentives, and VAT relief on classic vehicles, arguing that such measures would encourage ownership, restoration, and public exhibitions.

Speaking on the technical side of the industry, a vintage car restorer based in Abuja, Eugene, popularly known as Artman, highlighted the challenges involved in sourcing rare parts and restoring vehicles to original condition.

He noted that restoration requires specialised skills and access to international supply chains, with components often sourced from the United States and Europe depending on the vehicle model.

He pointed to iconic vehicles such as the Peugeot 404 and Volkswagen Beetle, noting their historical relevance and continued popularity among collectors and younger enthusiasts.

He also observed a growing trend toward modernising classic vehicles by integrating features such as automatic transmission systems to improve usability.

Also read: Zimbabwe Shuts 28 Unregistered Tourism Establishments

The vintage car community Lagos continues to position itself not only as a hobbyist group but as a potential contributor to Nigeria’s cultural tourism sector, with growing calls for structured support to unlock its economic and social value.