LagRide is a Lagos State government-backed ride-hailing and e-mobility platform, launched through a public-private partnership to modernise urban transportation while creating income opportunities for drivers. Through its Partner Programme and Drive To Own scheme, eligible drivers can earn income on the platform before taking full ownership of their vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The beneficiaries completed training at the LagRide Drivers Academy<\/strong> before receiving their vehicles during a handover ceremony in Lagos on Tuesday, July 21. LSLGA said the participants were selected through a competitive interview and assessment process, with those who did not meet the required standard expected to undergo additional training before being considered for future cohorts. LSLGA has previously funded other social programmes<\/a> in the state, including free health insurance coverage for 1,320 residents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The programme was funded by Bashir Are<\/strong>, chief executive officer of LSLGA, who described the initiative as the first phase of a broader empowerment effort that will continue beyond the initial group of beneficiaries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Under the scheme, LSLGA covered both the academy training and the cost of the vehicles, removing the upfront financial requirements that often prevent prospective drivers from joining the formal ride-hailing sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The participants will operate as LagRide Captains<\/strong>, initially earning income through the platform before progressing to the Drive To Own programme, which allows drivers to acquire full ownership of their vehicles after meeting agreed terms. LagRide has said it aims to deploy 3,500 vehicles through the initiative with support from partner organisations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Are said the programme was designed to create sustainable employment while improving transport services in Lagos. He added that the beneficiaries would now have an opportunity to generate income and support their families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Training at the LagRide Drivers Academy covered customer service, road safety, platform operations, professional conduct, vehicle maintenance, financial responsibility and brand representation before the participants were certified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chief Diana Chen<\/strong>, chairman of LagRide, said the programme provides a pathway for drivers to move from employment to vehicle ownership, while Hon. Dr Princess Omolara Oyekan-Olumegbon<\/strong>, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, described the initiative as a model for sustainable economic empowerment. Are has also called for closer regional cooperation<\/a> on player protection and gaming standards. The vehicle handover was also attended by Mildred Ekanem, LagRide’s executive director and dean of the Drivers Academy.<\/p>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/focusgn.com\/africa\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/07\/BENIN1-300x200.jpg\")
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