By Deborah Nnamdi
The Benue State Government has made history by launching a fleet of solar-powered electric taxis, signaling a major leap toward sustainable, low-cost transportation and job creation within the state.
In partnership with Esse Mobility, the groundbreaking initiative introduced Nigeria’s first commercial solar taxi service, which began operations in Makurdi, the state capital.
According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the service will expand to other cities, including Otukpo and Vandeikya, shortly.
During the official unveiling, Esse Mobility’s founder, Mr. Okey Esse, described the project as a landmark in Nigeria’s clean energy journey, emphasizing that the taxis operate entirely on solar energy, with batteries charged directly from sunlight — an ideal solution for urban mobility.
“These vehicles are equipped with advanced security technology to monitor every trip in real-time,” he stated.
Esse added that the target is to deploy 500 units by December 2025, along with plans to establish vehicle assembly plants in Benue.
“These facilities are expected to create at least 8,500 direct and indirect jobs across the state, spanning maintenance, operations, and charging infrastructure.
“With this project, mobility won’t be interrupted by fuel costs or weather. It’s a sustainable, safe, and job-creating solution for our people,” Esse added.
