Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State on Friday launched the first Electric Vehicle (EV) Hyundai Kona to be assembled in Nigeria.

This is as the governor promised to collaborate with business organizations in the state especially Stallion Automobile Company, which assembled the Kona Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) in its VON Assembly Plant, saying that this would lead to improved employment opportunities in the state.

Sanwo-Olu expressed optimism that the launch of the electric vehicle would create more opportunities for teeming Nigerian youths and qualified personnel, assuring that the government would create enabling environment for business to strive in the country.

Besides, he stated that the State Government would partner with filling stations, eateries, sales point and other business organisations for charging ports for electric vehicles in the state.

He also lauded Stallion Group for coming out with the innovation, stressing that this was the future of automobile industry not just in Nigeria, but across the world.

He said: ”I am happy that Stallion Group has turned around the VON Automobile plant. This place was moribund for several years, but Stallion has changed its story.

”We are creating youth employment, opportunities and new openings for our teeming youth with the unveiling of this innovation. The future I am seeing here is technology. This is the first Electric vehicle that will be assembled in our country. The government needs to partner with you for more job creation.

”I specifically want to commend Stallion for believing in Lagos and Nigeria. As a government, we will create enabling environment for your businesses to thrive.”

Speaking earlier, Mr. Mr. Manish Rohtagi, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Stallion Groups, said the company was excited to assemble first electric vehicle in the country. (Daily Independent)