Byline: Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) has taken delivery of electric and solar-powered cars to launch a modern taxi service in Makurdi, Gboko, and Otukpo.
The initiative stems from a trip to China in October 2024 by Governor Hyacinth Alia and BIPC Managing Director Dr Raymond Asemakaha.
The project aims to provide cost-effective transport, create youth employment, and reduce environmental impact with zero tailpipe emissions. Dr Asemakaha, while receiving the cars, said, “They will reduce costs and allow citizens of the state to have value for their money, create jobs for the teeming youths of the state and make taxi services efficient in Makurdi.”
Although targeting 100 vehicles, BIPC has received 20, with taxi services set to begin by month’s end. Asemakaha highlighted rising transport costs in Makurdi, noting, “The initiative is part of Gov. Hyacinth Alia’s deliberate efforts to crash prices of transportation just as it’s doing with bread and water in the state.”
He revealed a mobile app in development for 24-hour online booking. “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,” he said.
“We’re also 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.”
The BIPC Green Wheels initiative is a step towards sustainable transport, enhancing quality of life and supporting inclusive governance in Benue.