The Abia State Government has concluded plans to partner with COSCHARIS Group to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) for intra-city and state transport Services.
This initiative was introduced in a bid to improve the transport system and introduce an organised logistics system in major cities like Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia by creating a modern and sustainable transportation network.
Speaking during a business meeting with Dr Cosmas Maduka, Founder and CEO of COSCHARIS Group, and his team, Governor Alex Otti explained the decision to adopt electric vehicles.
He said, “Our decision to go electric was a well-thought-out decision, we didn’t just jump into it, we looked at everything.”
The Governor highlighted how many European countries are already planning to phase out fossil fuel vehicles by 2030 or 2035, while Nigeria’s earlier plan suggested a much later date, 2070.
He emphasized that the transition to electric vehicles is inevitable, saying, “At some point, whether today or tomorrow it will happen.”
Governor Otti while explaining the benefits of electric vehicles, said they use renewable energy, which is more economical to maintain, and have fewer components compared to traditional cars.
He said, “You buy a vehicle that has 200 parts as against one that has 17 if TESLA is right, but the maximum is 20. So it can’t be the same.”
Regarding the challenge of charging electric vehicles in a state with an unstable power supply, the Governor assured that plans were in place to improve electricity access.
He mentioned the role of Geometric Power in Aba, which now manages power supply across nine local government areas (LGAs), and ongoing discussions to expand coverage to the remaining LGAs through collaboration with Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC).
He noted, “Aba as an island is out of the National Grid technically.”
The Governor also explained efforts to ensure adequate gas supply for Geometric Power’s turbines and to resolve issues with the Alaoji Power Plant to generate more electricity.
He remarked, “There is no State that is as well positioned as we are to push for electric vehicles.”
Governor Otti praised COSCHARIS Group’s comprehensive approach to the EV project, saying, “What is important is the entire ecosystem and that is why your presentation is like music to our ears.”
He encouraged COSCHARIS to finalize plans with the state government to start the project soon.
Dr. Cosmas Maduka expressed gratitude for being chosen as a partner, stating that COSCHARIS has decades of experience in the automobile industry.
He affirmed, “You are discussing with the right organization in this project in the sense that this is the area where we have experience.”
Dr. Maduka commended Governor Otti’s leadership, describing his efforts as a turning point for Abia State, and said, “Electric Vehicles is where the world is headed.”
He assured the government that COSCHARIS would bring its expertise to ensure the success of the project.
Mr. Josiah Samuel, Group Managing Director of COSCHARIS, described the project as timely, noting that EV adoption is growing globally, with some Chinese cities already achieving 50% penetration.
The meeting was attended by members of both the COSCHARIS management team and Abia State Government officials, including Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, Principal Secretary to the Governor, and Mr. Charles Egonye, Technical Assistant to the Governor.