By Faridat Salifu
In a move positioning Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s clean energy transformation, Benue State has launched the continent’s first commercial fleet of 100% solar-powered electric taxis.
The launch, held recently in Makurdi, signals a bold shift in Nigeria’s transport and energy sectors.
It stems from a strategic partnership between the Benue State Government and Esse Mobility, a tech-forward company championing sustainable innovation.
Unlike hybrid or partially electric vehicles, these taxis run entirely on solar energy and require no fossil fuels.
Each unit is equipped with real-time tracking systems, advanced security features, and weather-resistant performance tools.
According to Esse Mobility’s founder, Mr. Okey Esse, the rollout marks a major breakthrough in off-grid mobility solutions tailored for African cities.
The initiative aims to deploy 500 units by December, bringing safe, eco-friendly transport to both urban and rural areas.
In addition to cutting transport costs, the project is expected to generate a minimum of 8,500 jobs across assembly, operations, maintenance, and logistics.
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Plans are also underway to set up vehicle assembly plants in Benue, deepening local manufacturing capacity.
The Managing Director of Benue Investment and Property Company, Mr. Raymond Asemakaha, described the project as a leap into the future of mobility.
He emphasized that the solar taxi initiative would contribute significantly to Benue’s GDP and help tackle youth unemployment.
Mrs. Theresa Abeda, Head of Strategy at BIPC, noted that the project would modernize metropolitan transit systems and reduce urban pollution.
Experts say the deployment supports Nigeria’s national electric vehicle plan and aligns with global net-zero emission goals.
It also mirrors the broader international commitment under the Paris Agreement to transition away from carbon-intensive industries.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government continues to invest heavily in national infrastructure, approving road projects worth over N1.81tn.
These include the restructured Akure-Ado-Ekiti highway and other key transport corridors to support regional integration.
Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, confirmed the adjustments as part of a strategy to deliver high-impact results with available funding.
As Nigeria races toward a green future, Benue’s solar taxis may just redefine the road ahead for the rest of the country.
