The Ondo State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ADMINSERV Ltd., a private firm, on Electric Vehicle (EV) operation in the state.
Mr. Olumuyiwa Ogunyemi, Special Adviser (S.A) to the Governor on Transport, at the signing of the MoU on Monday in Akure, said the initiative was to modernise the state’s transportation system.
Ogunyemi said the initiative would also reduce transportation costs, improve security and promote environmentally friendly mobility.
He explained that the state was pursuing the adoption of both Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles and EVs in line with the changing trends in the global automotive industry.
According to him, the government is working towards establishing charging stations to support EV operations and encourage adoption by individuals, organisations and government agencies.
“CNG facilities are already available at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), and opposite the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) facility in Ore.
“Meanwhile, plans are underway to expand the infrastructure across the state’s three senatorial districts,” he said.
The S.A, however, said the proposed digital transport system would also help address security concerns, including the menace of ‘one-chance’ operators, through vehicle-tracking technology.
He added that the system would improve punctuality by reducing waiting times for passengers at bus stops.
Earlier, Mr. Peter Nnamani, Managing Director of ADMINSERV Ltd., said the company was developing an artificial intelligence-enabled and environmentally friendly transportation solution for the state.
Nnamani said the proposed electric bus system would help reduce operating costs, lower carbon emissions and create employment opportunities through the development of charging infrastructure and the recruitment of drivers and other personnel.
“ADMINSERV LIMITED will bring in five EV buses to ply Akure in addition to the charging stations, while the staff for the stations and buses will be employed by ADMINSERV.
“The initiative can reduce monthly transportation expenses for users from about N9,000 to between N5,000 and N6,000.
“The proposed digital application will enable users to track buses and improve passenger safety. On security, in Nigeria, our beautiful country, we want things to be more secure.
“And for the app, it’s actually trackable. it can track both the bus driver as well as passengers which will helps a little bit with the security issues.
“The partnership is expected to support the state’s efforts to develop a modern transport system while promoting cleaner energy alternatives,” he said.
The MD also said the initiative was designed to provide residents with a more affordable, efficient and environmentally sustainable transportation system. (NAN)
