Benue Unveils Africa’s First Solar-Powered Taxis to Cut Transportation Costs and Create Jobs

Benue Unveils Africa’s First Solar-Powered Taxis to Cut Transportation Costs and Create Jobs

In a landmark move to revolutionize transportation and promote sustainability, the Benue State Government has launched solar-powered electric vehicles aimed at reducing commuting costs and curbing carbon emissions.

The eco-friendly vehicles, powered entirely by solar energy, were introduced on Monday in Makurdi as part of a pilot project that could see 500 units deployed across the state by December 2025.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Okey Esse, founder of Esse Mobility, the project’s technical partner, described the initiative as the first of its kind on the continent.

“The cars were the first solar taxis in Africa,” he said, emphasizing that Governor Hyacinth Alia’s vision was instrumental in bringing the project to life.

According to Esse, the solar-powered vehicles are designed to serve Makurdi residents initially, with plans to expand to other areas such as Otukpo and Vandeikya.

“Each of these cars has a lot of security gadgets infused in them, so when a passenger travels with the car, everything is being monitored.

“We have also gone a step further such that these cars are user-friendly. We ensured that all the technologies have no consequences for the drivers and the environment.

“From now to December, the target is to roll out 500 of these units. We will spread to other cities like Otukpo, Vandeikya and other local government areas.

“Our goal is to establish assembling factories in the state that would create more jobs for the people. Each car would generate direct jobs and other additional jobs in the charging centre and also in the administrative and operational areas.

“With these cars, people can move to different destinations even when it is raining, and by this we are looking at between now and December to create 8,500 jobs minimum for the state,” he said.

Mr. Raymond Asemakaha, Managing Director of Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), praised the innovation as a step forward in green transportation and economic development.

“The dedication of the Benue Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has made this possible, and we are proud to be among the pioneers to embrace the technology.

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“This will reduce the rate of unemployment and increase the state GDP. This is all thanks to our co-manager Esse Mobility for unlocking the world to electric vehicles.

“Let’s continue to prioritise sustainability, innovation and environmental stewardship to create a cleaner, greener future,” he said.

In her remarks, Mrs. Theresa Abeda, Head of Business Development and Strategy, said the project would transform Benue’s urban environment and serve as a model for other states.

The initiative not only seeks to modernize the state’s transport system but also aligns with global efforts to combat climate change by reducing dependence on fossil fuels