Building the future on wheels: Diana Chen speaks on Lagos, Lagride, and strengthening China–Africa ties

For over a decade, Diana Chen, Chairman of CIG Group, has been one of Nigeria’s most respected industrial leaders, a bridge between China and Africa, business and government, and technology and human progress. From automobiles and energy to education and hospitality, her influence continues to shape multiple sectors of the Nigerian economy. Yet, at the centre of it all stands Lagride, the Lagos State–backed mobility ecosystem that has transformed how Nigerians move, earn, and invest. In this exclusive interview, Chen speaks on the vision behind Lagride, her work with the Lagos State Government and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and her unrelenting commitment to building a transport sector that rivals Dubai and China. Daniel Obi brings the excerpts:

You’ve called Lagos home for more than a decade. What drives your passion for this city and its people?

Lagos is a city that lives, breathes, and dreams on a global scale. I came here over ten years ago, and from the moment I arrived, I felt its rhythm, bold, powerful, alive. Over the years, I’ve been honoured with several chieftaincy titles, but beyond the recognition, I believe I was sent here by God for a purpose: to help build bridges between China and Africa, and to contribute to a Lagos that reflects its destiny as a world-class megacity. Lagos has taught me that progress is not just about infrastructure but about people, their energy, resilience, and creativity. That’s what fuels my passion for this city every single day.

You’ve worked closely with the Lagos State Government and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. What has that collaboration been like?

His Excellency Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is a visionary. He sees transport not just as logistics, but as an enabler of dignity, order, and opportunity. Under his leadership, Lagos has prioritised innovation, and Lagride stands as a symbol of that forward-thinking vision. Our partnership with the Lagos State Government is built on mutual respect and shared purpose: to deliver a mobility system that works for every Lagosian. We have worked hand in hand with agencies, regulators, and private partners to ensure that what we build here can be a national model for other states to follow.

“Beyond that, we plan to introduce more opportunities to connect investors, government agencies, and diaspora Nigerians who want to be part of this transformation.”

What inspired the creation and rapid expansion of Lagride?

We wanted to redefine what safe, smart, and sustainable transportation could look like in Africa. Lagride was built to combine technology, governance, and opportunity in one system. Today, riders can choose between electric vehicles, premium Lagride Pro cars, or verified 2022-and-above Legacy cars driven by owner–drivers. We also introduced the Lagride Partner Programme, which allows individuals to own cars through zero-collateral payment plans over 18 or 24 months. It’s a model that creates wealth, not just work.

Why are you so passionate about making Lagos’ transport system world-class — on par with Dubai and China?

I’ve seen what is possible. In Dubai, transport is the heartbeat of tourism, commerce, and lifestyle. In China, mobility connects industries, people, and innovation. Lagos deserves that same excellence because it is Africa’s commercial nerve centre. I believe that with continued partnership between the government, private investors, and citizens, Lagos can lead Africa’s mobility revolution. We already have the structure, the technology, and the human capital. What we need is belief and consistency. Lagride is proof that world-class systems can thrive in Africa.

Read also: Lagride bets on electric future with 100 new EVs, fresh driver ownership schemes

How has China’s integration with Africa shaped your mission and work?

China and Africa are natural partners in growth. The collaboration is not just about trade, it’s about shared futures. Through platforms like the Nigeria–China Strategic Partnership, we’re seeing more structured cooperation in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and transport. As Vice Chair of the China-Africa Business Council, I’ve witnessed how trust, consistency, and shared value can transform both sides. I see Lagride as one of those bridges, a project that represents the best of both worlds: Chinese efficiency and African ingenuity.

How does the Lagride Partner Programme actually work?

It’s very simple. A partner makes a ₦5–₦10 million down payment on a brand-new ₦28 million vehicle, either an EV or a petrol-powered model. No collateral is required. Lagride manages the procurement, maintenance, and tracking, while drivers are trained through the Lagride Academy. Depending on the vehicle type and usage, partners can earn ₦1–₦2 million monthly after costs. At the end of the 18- or 24-month repayment period, the car becomes fully theirs. It’s a sustainable, transparent, and data-driven investment opportunity.

Can you tell us more about the Academy?

The Lagride Academy is one of our proudest achievements. Every driver is trained in security, hospitality, and professional service. We work with the Nigerian Police, FRSC, LASTMA, and hospitality experts to produce captains who can work anywhere in the world.

Our goal is to raise the bar of service in transport. Over 7,000 captains have been trained so far, and we’re onboarding 10,000 more before the year ends.

Some drivers and partners often ask about daily remittance. How does Lagride ensure it’s fair?

We rely on transparency, technology, and data. Lagride’s model is designed to help drivers meet realistic daily goals, supported by consistent marketing and route insights.

Our research shows that in the last quarter of every year, the Ember months, transport volume in Lagos rises by about 45 percent. We help our drivers take advantage of that, increasing their income while maintaining standards. It’s about partnership, not pressure.

What’s next for Lagride and the CIG Group?

We are preparing to launch the Lagride Omni, a mini-bus category for families, offices, and commuters. We’re also expanding into other states with an E-Taxi for Government model powered by CIG technology, financing, and operational expertise.

Beyond that, we plan to introduce more opportunities to connect investors, government agencies, and diaspora Nigerians who want to be part of this transformation.

CIG is more than automobiles. We are in energy, logistics, and sustainable infrastructure. Lagride is a very important part of our ecosystem, but our goal is bigger: to make mobility the foundation of modern Africa.

What continues to inspire you as a business leader?

It’s always the people. Every time I see a Lagosian step into a clean, safe car, every time a driver tells me their life has changed; every time a partner calls to say their investment is paying off, that’s my reward.

I believe God placed me here to build something that uplifts others. That’s what success means to me. Lagride – Safer. Smarter. Lagos Pride.

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