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Nugo Udoye: Pimping Cars To Die For

By Njideka Agbo
15 March 2018   |   9:00 am
In 2017, 28-year-old Nugo Udoye of Frankblaise Automobile Company, wowed Nigerians with one of his pimped cars. Since then, he has gone on to do more amazing works including partnering with automobile companies to design cars. Guardian Life caught up with him to discuss the pimp business in Nigeria and his aspirations with car pimping. Let’s…

In 2017, 28-year-old Nugo Udoye of Frankblaise Automobile Company, wowed Nigerians with one of his pimped cars. Since then, he has gone on to do more amazing works including partnering with automobile companies to design cars. Guardian Life caught up with him to discuss the pimp business in Nigeria and his aspirations with car pimping.

Nugo Udoye of Frankblaise Car Company. Photo credit: Nugo Udoye/home touch

Let’s start from the beginning, why car pimp and what inspired the Peugeot pimp?

I‘ve always had an interest in cars as a teenager; coupled with fact that I have a grandfather and a father who are into the transport business, my love for vehicles grew. I was lucky to have a father who shared my vision.

So after my university, I started refurbishing vehicles in 2014. I started with respraying, vehicle detailing and fixing of upholstery. Then in 2016, I ventured into mechanical and auto diagnostics. Since then, I’ve acquired knowledge and experience in the auto refurbishing industry.

Now, I have an outdated 504 Peugeot. So I thought why not make it live for a century? So I decided to redesign and refurbish the 504 Peugeot by adding 20 extra features to make it be at par with any car in the world.

Are there challenges you have encountered first as a refurbisher and then as a car pimp?

I have encountered some challenges as a refurbisher which is normal if you are involved in a business. One of the greatest challenges I have encountered, however, is fund. What I mean is, not being able to set up the required sections in the car industry. On the issue of the car pimp business, there is the issue of financial support.

Nugo Udoye of Frankblaise Automobile Company. Photo credit: Nugo Udoye/home touch

Are there people who you have taught the art of car pimping?

Yes. In 2016 I started a youth empowerment program with Impact Care foundation, which received about 35 youths (14 to 28) when we started, but only eight of them were graduated. I had to drop the rest because of lack of funds. Supporting us will benefit these youths immensely.

Has there been any form of encouragement from the government?

Well, I have received patronage from government officials but I am open to more support.

Are there people who you have taught the art of car pimping?

Yes. In 2016 I started a youth empowerment program with Impact Care foundation, which has received about 35 youths (14 to 28) to be trained, but only 8 of them were successfully trained. I had to drop the rest because of lack of funds. Supporting us will benefit these youths immensely.

Are there plans to extend beyond your current location [Eastern Nigeria]?

I have plans for expansion and yes we all should expect a new design, with more sophisticated and advanced features.

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