Benue govt launches electric taxi service, gets first 20 cars

The Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) has taken delivery of 20 electric and solar-powered vehicles to kickstart its modern, eco-friendly taxi service across Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo.

Speaking during the handover, BIPC Managing Director, Mr. Raymond Asemakaha, said the initiative is designed to cut transportation costs, provide better value for residents, and generate employment opportunities for local youth.

He revealed that the company is targeting a fleet of 100 electric vehicles for the Green Wheels taxi service.

“This initiative aims to provide efficient and cost-effective transportation, create jobs for local youth, and offer citizens better value for their money by reducing emissions contributing to a cleaner environment.

“The cars are zero-emission cars and are eco-friendly, have a control system and a geofencing technology that can show the location and an in-built CCTV to track movement, monitor and ensure security of passengers.

“We are going to have an assembling and charging plant at our BIPC mergemax (CNG/Petrol Station) beside the head office.

“All the parts are going to be there for regular and routine maintenance, and a single charge is going to cover 500 kilometres,” Asemakaha said.

To ensure convenience and round-the-clock access, a mobile app is currently in development, enabling passengers to book rides seamlessly.

Expressing concern over the rising cost of transport in Makurdi, Asemakaha said the Green Wheels project is a strategic effort by the state government to ease the financial burden on commuters.

He described the move as a major leap toward sustainable mobility in Benue State, aligning with the government’s vision of inclusive governance and improved quality of life for all residents.