2026 Energy Solutions: JéGO Presents EVs, Customised Charging Solutions

As 2026 dawns, energy transition, renewables, electric mobility solutions will be prominent in Nigeria. On account of this, Frederick Akpoghene, founder/CEO of JéGO Technologies Inc, speaks with auto journalists on local manufacturing, electric mobility, renewable energy, and the personal experiences that shaped his vision. Bennett Oghifo reports

Let’s meet JéGO Technologies Inc.

JéGO, is a Mobility as-a-service platform using self-driving technology to enable enterprises to provide services on-the-go, while reducing their carbon footprint. We aim to save lives, drive businesses forward, and empower individuals to embrace clean, shared, and innovative e-mobility opportunities.

What is the inspiration behind the name ‘JeGO’?

‘JeGO’ resonates across cultures. In Yoruba, it suggests ease and movement; in Wolof, it means purpose or a big step; in Filipino, it means energy; and in Igbo, it refers to journey or destination. The name reflects the two core elements of what we do: energy and mobility.

Who is Frederick Akpoghene, and how did his background influence JeGO?

I am a Lagos-born Nigerian who grew up witnessing instability, poor power infrastructure, and the need for people to create their own energy solutions—generators, boreholes, candles. My childhood experiences, including a house fire caused by a candle during a power outage, deeply shaped my thinking about energy and safety. These experiences are central to why I am doing what I do today.

How did your professional journey begin?

I started coding at 16 at the Microsoft IT Academy, University of Lagos, before moving to the US, where I studied Global Business and Technology in Boston. I also took courses at institutions like Harvard and MIT. After graduation, I worked in New York, building software and later working with companies like IBM, as well as Italian manufacturers involved in global automotive brands.

 What led you into the mobility and EV space?

The turning point was the death of my cousin in a car accident in Lekki Phase 1. First responders could not reach him for four hours due to lack of fuel. That experience pushed me into mobility, particularly safer, lower-cost vehicles. We first built a driverless vehicle abroad, but the Nigerian reality made us focus on smaller, affordable EVs.

What is driving JeGO’s plan to move into local assembly through SKD and CKD?

From 2026, we will begin the Semi Knocked Down (SKD) process, and later Completely Knocked Down (CKD). The major driver is economics. Shipping alone takes between 50 and 60 days on average, sometimes almost half a year in business terms. Beyond logistics delays, there are customs duties and import-related costs. There is also a Bill that has been passed to encourage patronage of local manufacturers, making it more viable in the long term. When you look five years ahead, the return on investment becomes clearer.

Why is local manufacturing important, beyond electric vehicles?

It is not just about EVs; it also applies to our energy products. The question we ask is: what can we do locally? Manufacturing locally helps reduce logistics costs and strengthens the ecosystem. Our goal is to contribute to making Nigeria a bedrock for manufacturing in Africa.

What challenges are involved in setting up manufacturing facilities in Nigeria?

The biggest challenge is financing. Setting up and running a factory requires tens of millions of dollars. It is not just the setup; operations are equally capital intensive. You need a large workforce, not five or ten people. At the moment, we are attracting financing while sharing resources with manufacturing partners in China, which is more affordable compared to places like the United States.

Where are JeGO’s planned manufacturing locations?

We have land in Epe, close to the Dangote Refinery in the Free Trade Zone. We also have plans for Benin City and Delta State and have been offered land in Benin. These locations are strategic for logistics and industrial growth.

Why does JeGO focus on affordability?

To us, EVs are not meant to be luxury products in markets like Nigeria. All our vehicles are under N40 million, while many others cost N80 million to N200 million. The goal is to help the average Nigerian reduce transportation costs, cut reliance on fossil fuels, and ease the overall energy burden.

 How does government policy affect EV pricing?

There are positive steps, such as the zero per cent import tariff certificate, but in practice, it is not truly zero because of additional fees. These costs are eventually passed on to citizens, increasing vehicle prices. True affordability requires a more transparent and supportive policy environment.

What is JeGO’s approach to renewable energy?

Our mission is to give Nigerians access to EVs and renewable energy. Renewable energy, particularly solar, is non-exhaustible. We have developed systems like the Five Series EV Charger, which can power homes, businesses, and charge EVs simultaneously using grid or solar energy.

 How does the JeGO energy system work?

The system is modular and can charge from solar PV or the grid. It includes battery stacks, inverters, and an app that allows users to monitor performance remotely. Essentially, it is a cleaner and safer alternative to diesel generators, which are expensive and exhaustible.

Who are your current clients for energy solutions?

We provide power solutions to hotels and businesses. For instance, we have a 1.5 megawatt-hour station powering Breeze Continental Hotel alongside EV charging. One megawatt can power up to 4,000 homes in the US, showing the scale of what is possible.

How do you see EV adoption evolving in Nigeria?

EV adoption is inevitable. Nigerians are curious and receptive; even police officers stop to look when they see our vehicles. However, adoption must be matched with energy infrastructure. From my experience in California, rushing EVs without a modern grid leads to charging bottlenecks. That is why our focus is on turning homes and businesses into viable charging points.

What role does technology play in JeGO’s solutions?

Technology is central. Our systems allow remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and over-the-air updates, similar to modern EVs. The aim is reliability, efficiency, and long-term cost savings for users.

What is the long-term vision for JeGO in Nigeria?

Our vision is to enable sustainable mobility and energy access for the average Nigerian, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and position Nigeria as a serious player in EV manufacturing and renewable energy solutions.