The Abia State Government has announced a strategic partnership with Coscharis Group to roll out electric vehicles (EVs) for intra-city and statewide transport services.
During a business meeting held at his office, Governor Alex Otti emphasized that the decision to adopt electric vehicles was deliberate and forward-thinking. “This decision wasn’t made impulsively; we considered all factors carefully,” Otti stated. He highlighted that several European nations are already working to phase out fossil fuel-powered vehicles between 2030 and 2035, a transition Nigeria must also prepare for.
Otti further explained the economic and environmental benefits of EVs, pointing out that renewable energy sources are cleaner and more sustainable. “Unlike traditional vehicles that rely on fossil fuels, electric vehicles only require charging. Even though compressed natural gas (CNG) is cleaner, it still leaves an environmental footprint,” he added.
The governor also noted that EVs are more cost-effective in terms of maintenance. “Electric vehicles have significantly fewer components—about 20 parts compared to 200 in traditional vehicles. This difference translates to lower maintenance costs,” he remarked.
Regarding power supply for charging the vehicles, Otti expressed confidence in Abia’s readiness. He explained that Aba is currently supported by Geometric Power, which provides electricity to nine local government areas outside the national grid. Discussions are ongoing to extend the power supply to the remaining eight local government areas by acquiring the Abia portion of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC).
“We are also working with the Federal Government to ensure a steady gas supply to Geometric Power and to address issues affecting the Alaoji Power Plant under the Niger Delta Power Holding Company,” Otti explained. He added that these efforts position Abia as a pioneer state for embracing electric vehicles.
The governor commended Coscharis Group for presenting a comprehensive plan, emphasizing the importance of creating an ecosystem around EVs rather than merely selling vehicles. “Your approach aligns perfectly with our vision. In the coming days, I expect your team to work with mine to finalize the implementation,” he stated.
Dr. Cosmas Maduka, Founder, President, and CEO of Coscharis Group, thanked Governor Otti for choosing the company as a partner. He assured the governor of Coscharis’ capability, citing their five decades of experience in the automobile industry.
“We are fully committed to this project and will bring our expertise to help Abia State achieve and sustain this initiative,” Maduka said. He praised Governor Otti’s leadership, describing the EV initiative as groundbreaking and a move that will inspire other states to follow suit.
Dr. Maduka also highlighted the global shift towards EVs, noting that cities in China have already achieved 50% penetration. He expressed confidence that the Abia initiative would align Nigeria with global trends in sustainable transportation.
Other Coscharis executives, including Group Managing Director Josiah Samuel, Executive Director of Strategy Jonathan Maduka, and General Manager of Coscharis Mobility C.C. Chigbundu, also attended the meeting. They were joined by the Principal Secretary to the Governor, Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, and Technical Assistant to the Governor, Charles Egonye.
Governor Otti concluded the meeting by expressing gratitude to Coscharis Group for their partnership and commitment, stating that this initiative marks a significant step toward modernizing transportation in Abia State.