Abia State partners with Coscharis Group to introduce electric vehicles, transforming the transport sector. Governor Otti’s vision for a sustainable future positions Abia as a leader in green transportation in Nigeria.
In a groundbreaking move to modernize its transportation sector, the Abia State Government has entered into a strategic partnership with Coscharis Group to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) into intra-city and inter-state transport services. This partnership, unveiled during a meeting on December 4, 2024, in Umuahia, signifies a significant shift towards sustainability and technological advancement in Nigeria’s transportation landscape.
Governor Alex Otti, speaking during the meeting with Coscharis founder Dr. Cosmas Maduka, emphasized the state’s commitment to leading the transition to clean energy. “Our decision to go electric was well thought out. We’re not just selling cars; we’re creating an entire ecosystem,” Otti said.
Governor Otti outlined how this project aligns with global trends, referencing the phased-out plans of fossil fuel vehicles in Europe by 2030 and 2035. He highlighted the economic and environmental advantages of EVs, particularly their minimal maintenance requirements and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.
Otti reassured citizens that despite Nigeria’s inconsistent power supply, the state’s energy strategy, powered by Geometric Power in Aba, covering nine local government areas (LGAs), would ensure the project’s success. He also revealed plans to extend this power control to the remaining LGAs through ongoing discussions with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) and the Federal Government’s support to prioritize gas supply for power generation in Aba.
Dr. Cosmas Maduka expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting Coscharis Group’s extensive experience in the automobile sector. “Electric Vehicles are the future, and Abia State is making a trailblazing move that other states will follow,” Maduka stated. He reaffirmed the company’s readiness to bring its expertise and capacity to bear, ensuring the project’s success.
Maduka further lauded Governor Otti’s visionary leadership, describing his administration as transformative. “For the first time, Abia got it right. Governor Otti is turning zero situations into tangible outcomes,” Maduka praised.
The Coscharis management team, including Group Managing Director (GMD) Josiah Samuel, Executive Director Jonathan Maduka, and General Manager C.C. Chigbundu, affirmed their commitment to supporting Abia State’s electric vehicle initiative. Samuel noted that while the Federal Government’s push for CNG buses was commendable, electric vehicles represent a more forward-thinking solution, citing China’s significant progress in EV adoption.
Governor Otti emphasized that this partnership extends beyond vehicle sales. The state aims to build a complete ecosystem that includes charging stations, vehicle servicing centers, and comprehensive training for transport operators. He instructed his team to finalize details with Coscharis within days, aiming for a swift project rollout.
The meeting also saw participation from key government officials, including Principal Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu and Technical Assistant to the Governor Mr. Charles Egonye, demonstrating the government’s unified approach to this transformative initiative. MORE PHOTOS BELOW:
