Mikano Motors has presented Changan Eado Plus to Doris Ogah, the newly crowned 45th Miss Nigeria.
The presentation ceremony was done on Monday at the automobile company’s office in Lagos.
Mikano said that the handing over of the luxury sedan to Ogah, officially marked the beginning of the partnership between Mikano Motors and the Miss Nigeria pageant, which exemplifies Nigerian women’s beauty, strength, and resilience.
Speaking at the handing over ceremony, Joelle Haykal, Executive Director, Mikano International, said that the partnership represented the company’s commitment to empowering women and supporting local talent within the communities, in line with Miss Nigeria’s theme for this year, ‘Cultural Heritage and Community Engagement.’
Haykal, expressed that this had always been a mainstay for the Mikano Group and it was evident in much of its efforts to give back to the society.
He added: “We are very excited to present the Eado Plus to Ms Ogah, who embodies the spirit of Miss Nigeria. This initiative is not just about the car; it is about recognising the iconic symbolism of the Miss Nigeria pageant, from its beginnings in 1957, as a photo contest to what we have now, a pageant that has produced ladies who have made impacts in various professional fields and with credible accomplishments.”
Also, Tom Yin,Vice General Manager, Changan Middle East and Africa (MEA), expressed happiness with the partnership.
Yin said that as a global brand with over 163 years history and 42 years of automobile manufacturing experience, Changan had always regarded “leading the automotive civilisation and enriching human life” as its mission and responsibility.
He maintained that the company was honoured to partner with Mikano in expanding its presence in the Nigerian market, offering high-quality products and services to local customers.
Yin assured that Changan would remain committed to long-termism and localisation, working hand in hand with Mikano to create more jobs and drive sustainable development in Nigeria.
He added: “This beauty pageant focuses on the remarkable achievements of Nigerian women such as wisdom, leadership, and cultural advocacy. This aligns perfectly with Changan Automobile’s global ‘Her Power’ initiative.
“Through this collaboration, Changan Automobile aims to inspire a new generation of women to pursue their dreams, shine in their fields, and shape a brighter future.”
In her comment, Ms. Ogah, the visibly delighted Miss Nigeria who attended the handing over ceremony with her family and friends, lauded Mikano Motors for the encouragement.
She further expressed her excitement to have won the pageant and receiving the Eado Plus.
She said: “Winning the Miss Nigeria title has been a life-changing experience, and I am deeply grateful to Mikano Motors for this incredible gift. This car is not just a means of transportation; it represents the journey ahead—one filled with purpose, advocacy, and impact. I am excited for all that is to come and look forward to using my reign to inspire and empower young girls across Nigeria. Thank you, Mikano, for this generous support.
“To the remarkable Mikano International team, your generous gift of the Changan Eado Plus is truly one fit for a Queen. As someone receiving her first car, this is more than a vehicle—it’s a symbol of empowerment, opportunity, and the transformative power of dreams backed by action. Also, my mum would be glad to not be sharing her car with me anymore.”
Besides, Mrs. Rita Dominic Anosike, the legendary Nollywood queen and Chairman of the Miss Nigeria board, shared her insights into reviving the Miss Nigeria franchise.
She declared that reviving the Miss Nigeria franchise had never just been about a pageant, rather about building a platform that celebrates the brilliance, ambition, and cultural pride of the Nigerian woman.
“With partners like Mikano, we are not just crowning queens—we are empowering a generation and ensuring that Miss Nigeria is a title and a platform for real impact. We are excited about this new chapter and the journey ahead,” she added.
The highlight of the event was the signing of the partnership contract between Mikano and the reigning Miss Nigeria.