Lagos State Government launched an e-hailing taxi scheme with 1,000 brand new saloon and sports utility cars yesterday, March 23, 2022.
This is in an effort to reduce the rate of unemployment and restiveness among youths.
The e-hailing scheme otherwise known as LAGRIDE is a joint venture between the state government and a Chinese Car Manufacturing Company, CIG Motors Company Ltd.
According Governor Sanwo-Olu, the partnership includes the establishment of a car assembling plant in Lagos State, which is currently at 50 percent completion stage.
The scheme provides the driver or operator with right to own the car after it is fully paid for within three to four years. An android phone will also be given to each driver/operator loaded with the apps as well as training and certification with Lagos State Drivers Institute for the operators. Also, insurance cover would be provided for the drivers in the case of accident, loss of life among others.
Sanwo-Olu said the initiative was geared towards enhancing mobility suitable for the megacity status of the State in line with the vision of providing a multi-modal transportation system for residents.
Meanwhile, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Cui Jianchun, advised the Lagos State government to invest more in rail transportation to decongest traffic on Lagos roads.
By Feranmi Okuku
