A Groundbreaking Achievement in Nigerian Education
In a remarkable display of ingenuity and determination, students from Brilliant Footsteps International Academy in Sokoto State have achieved a historic milestone by designing and constructing a fully functional electric vehicle from scratch. This accomplishment has captured national attention and marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s educational and technological landscape.
The innovative vehicle, named BMT 1.0, was conceived, designed, and assembled entirely by a group of 15 graduating Senior Secondary School (SS3) students—ten girls and five boys—as their final-year project. This initiative stands out as the first of its kind in Northern Nigeria, showcasing the potential for local innovation and sustainability.
Dr. Shadi Sabeh, the proprietor of the academy, emphasized the importance of this achievement during the public unveiling of the car. He stated, “This isn’t just a school project. It’s a message.” According to Sabeh, the BMT 1.0 demonstrates that with the right mindset and mentorship, Nigerian youth can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of African innovation.
The BMT 1.0 operates on a Battery Management System (BMS), requires only 3 to 4 hours of charging, and can travel up to 30 kilometers on a full charge. The vehicle features a comprehensive integration of mechanical, electrical, and body design systems, reflecting months of dedication, research, and practical engineering.
Technical consultancy was provided by Maglush Electrical Company, but the entire building process—from chassis fabrication and wiring to software testing—was led by the students themselves. Ahmed Sadi, the team leader, explained that the group functioned like a full-fledged engineering unit, with each member having a clear role in tasks such as frame welding, wiring, and battery system integration.
Aisha Ahmed, one of the lead contributors, expressed her vision for the project, stating that it highlights the potential for innovation in regions often overlooked. She added that if scaled and improved, this project could help reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported vehicles and promote sustainable mobility.
Dr. Sabeh further highlighted the academy’s mission to provide functional education that goes beyond textbooks. He noted that the project serves as a call for greater investment in education and urged both the public and private sectors to establish innovation incubation programs across Nigerian schools.
Despite being located in an area with limited infrastructure, scarce funding, and minimal access to advanced technology, these young innovators have demonstrated what is possible when talent meets opportunity. Dr. Sabeh remarked, “It’s not happening in Tokyo or China or Japan. It’s happening right here, in Sokoto.”
The BMT 1.0 has already undergone a live test drive, impressing journalists and guests alike. Moving forward, the school plans to partner with industry stakeholders to improve the model and explore local production possibilities.
As the BMT 1.0 rolls forward, it carries more than just the hopes of its students; it represents the aspirations of a continent ready to engineer its own future. This groundbreaking achievement is a testament to the power of education, innovation, and perseverance.
