Zuid Energies Limited, a clean-energy mobility and infrastructure company, has disclosed that it is partnering with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to deploy electric-powered taxi services at major international airports as part of efforts to improve transport efficiency and support Nigeria’s zero-emission goals.
The Chief Executive Officer of Zuid Energies, Ogochukwu Abiakam, made the disclosure while speaking with journalists, explaining that the collaboration covers the rollout of electric vehicle (EV) ride-hailing and executive airport taxi services, alongside the development of EV charging infrastructure within and around airport environments.
According to Abiakam, the pilot phase of the project will begin at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, with plans to expand to other FAAN-managed airports nationwide.
“Abuja and Lagos will serve as pilot locations. Following the evaluation of operational performance, passenger demand and infrastructure readiness, we intend to scale deployment across all FAAN-owned airports in phases,” he said.
On operational modalities, Abiakam explained that Zuid Energies operates a digital-first booking system, using a WhatsApp booking bot and dispatch platform that allows passengers to request rides seamlessly.
“Passengers can book rides via WhatsApp, after which vehicles are dispatched either from airport staging areas or from city charging hubs. All operations are conducted in partnership with FAAN and in compliance with airport transport regulations,” he noted.
He added that the company’s approach is designed to promote accessibility and affordability, noting that electric vehicles offer lower operating costs compared to fuel-powered alternatives.
“Our goal is accessibility. EV technology helps stabilise pricing over the long term due to lower operating costs. We also intend to work collaboratively with existing airport taxi operators,” Abiakam said.
He further explained that Zuid Energies plans to introduce a transition model that will enable existing operators to participate in the EV ecosystem through partnerships, fleet conversion opportunities and driver integration programmes.
On sustainability measures, the Zuid Energies CEO disclosed that the company is developing a comprehensive EV ecosystem, including dedicated charging stations in Lagos and Abuja, planned charging infrastructure within airport premises, and preventive maintenance partnerships with certified EV technicians.
Looking ahead, Abiakam revealed plans to expand operations to additional Nigerian airports, develop intercity EV transport corridors, and increase public charging infrastructure nationwide. He also disclosed ongoing considerations for fleet financing programmes for partners and potential expansion into the wider West African aviation mobility ecosystem.
“Electric vehicles represent the future of transportation globally, and Nigeria is well positioned to benefit from early adoption,” he said.
Abiakam noted that increased EV adoption would help reduce national demand for petrol and diesel, lower government exposure to fuel price volatility, and encourage a shift towards domestically generated electricity, thereby easing pressure on foreign exchange used for fuel imports.
He added that EV adoption could significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth by stimulating new industries such as charging infrastructure, vehicle maintenance and assembly, while also creating skilled technical jobs, reducing fuel import costs, improving foreign exchange stability and encouraging local manufacturing and technology transfer.