- Ogun State’s new e-Mobility Programme, featuring 2,000 electric bikes, is in doubt due to concerns over battery life, durability, and limited charging stations.
- Despite the initial challenges, users and officials remain optimistic, noting potential long-term savings and environmental benefits as improvements in technology and infrastructure
Following Governor Dapo Abiodun’s launch of Ogun State’s e-Mobility Programme on July 31, 2024, doubt surrounds the newly introduced electric bikes. This initiative, aimed at mitigating transportation costs amid the removal of fuel subsidies, includes the rollout of 2,000 electric bikes.
Governor Abiodun inaugurated the initiative at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. He announced that the first phase of the project, a Public-Private Partnership, would see the deployment of these bikes. Additionally, the Giga Facility in the Special Agro Processing Zone, Iperu-Remo, with a $40 million investment, is set to become an assembly plant for electric vehicles and swap stations.
In his speech, Abiodun highlighted that e-bikes could travel 75-80 kilometres on a full charge, while electric cars can cover up to 200 kilometres. He emphasised that the initiative aims to reduce transportation costs by 40% and align with the state’s energy transformation goals for a cleaner environment.
However, a month into the pilot phase, concerns have surfaced among commercial motorcyclists, known locally as “okada” riders, regarding the e-bikes’ durability, battery life, and the limited number of charging stations.
Jide, a commercial motorcyclist, expressed his reservations, noting the high cost of the bikes and the frequent need for battery recharging. He revealed that the bikes are available on hire purchase from three unions, with costs ranging from N1.5 million to N1.8 million, depending on the union and repayment terms.
Another rider, who remained anonymous, criticised the battery’s short lifespan and insufficient charging stations, which currently number only four in Abeokuta. He mentioned that battery swaps cost N1,250 for two batteries, which last about an hour and a half, making daily expenses substantial.
Despite these concerns, some users praised the initiative, like Olufemi Olaoye, a Branch Chairman of the Lafenwa Unit under AMORAN. Olaoye acknowledged the e-bike’s comfort and cost-effectiveness compared to petrol-powered motorcycles but agreed that improvements in battery life and increased charging stations are necessary.
Femi Allen, also a member of AMORAN, noted that e-bikes’ advantages outweigh their current shortcomings. He expressed optimism that as technology evolves and more charging points become available, e-bikes will become a preferred option over petrol-powered motorcycles.
Kunle Adimula, a real estate merchant who purchased an e-bike outright, shared a positive experience despite acknowledging battery limitations. He noted significant savings in transportation costs compared to his previous expenditure on fuel.
The Deputy Chairman of AMORAN, Lawal Kazeem, observed a gradual acceptance of e-bikes among residents and commended the governor for the initiative. He mentioned that challenges, such as battery life and the need for more charging stations, are typical of new technologies and are being addressed.
Transportation Commissioner Gbenga Dairo reassured that the government is working to resolve these issues. He highlighted that improvements are expected as the market for green energy technologies grows. Dairo emphasised the government’s role in creating a favourable environment for investors and ensuring the expansion of charging infrastructure.
He also pointed out that the power sector’s deregulation could lead to a more reliable electricity supply and increased availability of charging stations. The government, he said, is committed to addressing the current challenges and ensuring the success of the e-Mobility Programme.
Overall, while the e-Mobility Programme faces some initial hurdles, there is hope that ongoing improvements and investments will enhance the viability and acceptance of electric bikes in Ogun State.