Informally launched in 2019, AutoGirl has steadily cemented itself as both a reliable and affordable car rental agency in Lekki, Nigeria. Beyond car rentals, AutoGirl also offers services like vehicle rentals that span across water, land, and air, and a program that allows car owners to get a little extra income by becoming a “host” and renting out their car through.
The founder and CEO of the company, Chinazom Arinze, was only 19 or 20 when she began this side hustle. “I was just doing it because it was fun, and it did bring some money, but then it grew a lot larger than I expected. I started getting consistent customers.” Arinze says. “I started my business with zero money; the only thing that I had leverage upon was connections. I used my network from the car dealership I worked in, and social media.”
As AutoGirl grew into a successful business, it was accepted into the Seedstars accelerator program, a global organization that supports and invests in early-stage startups in emerging markets. In 2022, Arinze was recognized by Tony Elemelu, a Nigerian leader in entrepreneurship and philanthropy, and chosen to be one of his business mentees. Arinze’s team now includes 5 others that help manage AutoGirl, along with an operations team that works 24/7.
With support from major corporates such as UAC, Ayomatics Mechanics, Balance Mechanics, Univad, LaerryBlue PR, and Ijemondo, AutoGirl launched the Auto Women Empowerment program on September 1st, 2024. This initiative provides scholarships to 60 women, helping them to gain vital skills for a successful career in the automotive industry, including hands-on training in professional driving, car repair, mechanics, and affiliate sales.
With 4+ years in business, 520+ vehicles, 20,000+ rentals completed, and ₦ 2B+ (naira) paid to car owners, Chinazom Arinze plans on expanding to 15 countries across Africa in the next five years. While auto mechanics are a traditionally male dominated industry, Arinze continues to challenge gender roles and provide more opportunities for women in Nigeria.
