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Mecofinder, a new mobile app, which connects users with auto mechanics and technicians on a single platform in real time, has been launched in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial city. The new mobile app, which was introduced at a media launch, Wednesday, is really an indication that the future of auto repairs and other related services in Nigeria is online.
A project of Kodzone Technologies Limited, the mobile app, which is being flaunted as “the largest online directory of automobile servicemen and towing vans operators in Lagos, according to Damilare Adekeye, Director, Engineering and Design, is “a location-based app to conveniently link with auto service technicians on a single platform.” He disclosed that the aim is to bring convenience to users in case of emergency and pull them out of trouble by easily locating the nearest auto technician(s) within the area.
“Mecofinder is for auto technicians. It’s out to link users with competent and trustworthy auto technicians in case of emergency.The essence is to ensure convenient and affordable option in case of emergency.We are kicking off in Lagos in August while other states will follow in phases. We hope Nigerians will find the app useful in their daily challenges wherever they find themselves.” he said.
Available at launch only in Lagos, with staggered introduction planned for other states later, Adekeye said Mecofinder derives its name from “meco”, the local parlance used in describing mechanics in the country. While maintaining that the app has been thoroughly tested by the technical team to interface with users and service providers on the platform, he said: “Mecofinder works with GPS and uses a GPS-enabled device to receive the signal.”
He added: “Mecofinder is driven by the latest technology – Google API. A user needs to download the app and can select from 14 categories currently on Mecofinder and it automatically identifies the location of the user and then fetches all available technicians in the area.With Mecofinder, Nigerians now have an alternative from what they already have.”
Also speaking at the launch, Olumide Omoyeni, Director Business Development, said the technical team will verify subscribers and ascertain their competence in the areas they lay claim to on the platform. Omoyeni listed the benefits of the app to include an option of multiple streams of income for the auto technicians; user-reviews of auto services providers to be guide users on the credibility of service providers; tracking of all activities and options to entertain complaints from either the users or service providers. A unique feature of the app, according to Kodzone, is workmen insurance cover for the auto service providers again injuries or unintentional error in the course of their work.
Other Directors of the company spoke at the event while goodwill messages and suggestions for improvement came from representatives of targeted stakeholders, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), National Automobile Technicians Association (NATA) and Locksmith Association of Nigeria.
