Nigerian Entrepreneur Mustapha Gajibo’s Electric Vehicle Revolution
Mustapha Gajibo, an entrepreneur, has taken it upon himself to change the narrative by launching a homegrown electric vehicle industry in Maiduguri, northeastern Nigeria.
His startup, Phoenix Renewables Limited, is making significant strides in providing electric mobility solutions to ease the burden that predominantly fossil fuel-based transportation imposes on the population.
Gajibo’s Journey
Mustapha Gajibo’s foray into the electric vehicle industry commenced with the conversion of internal-combustion engines of commonly used vehicles in Maiduguri to electric versions. Initially targeting seven-seat minibuses and motorized tricycles, his vision encountered skepticism due to the limited charging infrastructure in the region. However, through determination and perseverance, his electrification efforts have gained momentum.
Phoenix Renewables Limited now maintains a fleet of electric minibuses that are economically viable, covering a distance of 150 kilometers on a single charge.
Addressing Infrastructure Needs
Recognizing the pivotal role of infrastructure in the success of his venture, Gajibo collaborated with his co-founder Sadiq Abubakar Issa to design a 60-kilowatt-hour solar-powered charging station in Maiduguri, with plans for further expansion. This strategic move not only serves to establish the necessary infrastructure but also contributes to advancing sustainable energy solutions in the region.
Taking the Leap: From Retrofits to New Build
Having achieved success in retrofitting internal-combustion vehicles, Gajibo has now shifted his focus to manufacturing electric vehicles from scratch. The company unveiled its first creation in 2021 – a 12-seat bus constructed from locally sourced materials. This innovation represents a significant milestone, boasting a commendable range of 212 kilometers and featuring a fast-charging capability integrated with a solar-powered system. Noteworthy results emerged from a recent test run, where the buses efficiently transported 35,000 passengers in just one month, showcasing the practicality and efficiency of Gajibo’s electric vehicles.
Affordability and Market Prospects
A key aspect of Gajibo’s vision is to make electric vehicles accessible and cost-effective. He emphasizes that the affordability of their products plays a pivotal role in their strategy, with the anticipated cost of a solar-powered 12-seater bus aligning with the pricing of traditional gas-powered equivalents. With plans to introduce 500 units across eight Nigerian cities in the near future, Gajibo aims to demonstrate the commercial viability of his electric vehicles and carve a niche in the market.
Competing on a Global Stage
Undeterred by the formidable competition, Gajibo aspires to position his venture as a global contender, directly challenging established brands like Tesla. His ambition extends to envisioning his vehicles plying the streets of major international cities, firmly believing in the potential of his locally designed and manufactured electric vehicles to make an impact on a global scale.
In essence, Mustapha Gajibo’s journey embodies innovation, resilience, and a commitment to providing sustainable mobility solutions in Nigeria and beyond. His endeavors not only hold the promise of transforming the transportation landscape locally but also inspire a vision of Nigerian-made electric vehicles making their mark on the world stage.
