Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has officially launched EBOCAB, a pioneering ride-hailing service aimed at enhancing mobility within the state.
The launch held at a newly established terminal in Abakaliki marked a significant milestone in the governor’s efforts to improve mobility, foster economic growth, and create employment opportunities for the youth.
EBOCAB, branded with the slogan “Our City, Our Ride”, features a fleet of modern vehicles, primarily pickup trucks and sports utility vehicles (SUVs), which have been repurposed for passenger transport.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to address the transportation challenges in Abakaliki, the state capital, and its environs, particularly in response to issues such as touting, harassment, theft, and intimidation by some tricycle riders at the Ebonyi State International Market.
The service can be accessed through a dedicated mobile application, available on both the Play Store and App Store, allowing users to book rides conveniently.
During the formal launch at the Corporate Headquarters on Ogoja Road by the Ecumenical Centre in Abakaliki, Governor Nwifuru explained that the establishment of EBOCAB was necessitated by the need to provide a smart and cost-effective transport alternative.
“The criminal acts of some tricycle riders prompted us to establish EBOCAB, ensuring that our people can move freely and safely,” he stated. The governor highlighted that the service would operate 24/7, providing reliable transport options even during late hours, and emphasised its role in fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for Ebonyi residents.
The EBOCAB terminal, a modern facility equipped with amenities, serves as the operational hub for the service. It is designed to accommodate the growing fleet and ensure efficient management of ride bookings and vehicle maintenance. The terminal’s strategic location in Abakaliki facilitates easy access for both drivers and passengers.
The fleet comprises 60 brand new pickup vans and 30 units of SUVs, specifically tailored to serve air travellers using the state’s airport, as well as commuters within the metropolis and beyond.
Governor Francis Nwifuru’s choice of trucks for EBOCAB raises concerns
Critics, however, have raised concerns about the choice of vehicles for the service. The use of pickup trucks, typically associated with freight transport, has been questioned for its suitability as a passenger service. Some residents and observers argue that the state government should have focused on mass transit solutions rather than a ride-hailing service, especially given Abakaliki’s relatively small size and existing transportation infrastructure.
Despite the criticisms, supporters of the initiative praise it as a bold move towards the modernisation of the state capital. The launch of EBOCAB is also seen as part of Governor Nwifuru’s broader agenda to revitalise Ebonyi State’s economy. Since assuming office, Nwifuru’s policy thrust has been on infrastructure development, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
The EBOCAB project aligns with his commitment to job creation, with plans to employ a significant number of young drivers and support staff, thereby addressing unemployment and enhancing security through regulated transport.
The service’s operational model includes an online booking model which connects users to drivers in five minutes. The app’s user-friendly interface allows for easy navigation and real-time tracking of rides, ensuring a seamless experience for users.
Additionally, the service promises to offer competitive pricing, aiming to make transportation affordable for all segments of the population.
As part of the launch, Governor Nwifuru announced that EBOCAB would officially commence operations on May 28, 2025, with an initial fleet of over 100 vehicles. The state government has committed to expanding the fleet and improving the infrastructure to meet growing demand, reflecting a long-term vision for the service’s sustainability and impact.
The governor expressed his excitement on his official social media handle, stating, “We have unveiled our new transport system initiative, EBOCAB. This digitally driven system is here to improve our mode of transportation, create jobs, grow our economy, enhance the security of our people, and improve our overall well-being.”
The initiative has received support from key figures within the state. The former Minister of Power and Steel, Chief Godwin Ogbaga, thanked the governor for the initiative, noting that “Citizens of this state can now enter a brand new vehicle with an air conditioner to wherever they are going.”
“This will go a long way to boost the economy and security of the state since it is regulated and can be tracked as well.” Mr Collins Igboke, the State Commissioner for Transportation, added.
