LOOM Magazine

How Chinedu Azodoh is Driving Africa’s Mobility Revolution

From the bustling streets of Festac Town to the innovation hubs of MIT and Techstars New York, journey has been anything but conventional. As Co-founder and Chief Growth Officer of .ai (Metro Africa Xpress), he’s helping to reshape the future of mobility in Africa by building locally rooted solutions to long-standing challenges.

Founded in 2015, MAX began as a response to Africa’s need for reliable and efficient mobility systems. But under Chinedu’s leadership, it quickly evolved into something far greater: a full-scale mobility platform offering transport, financing, electric vehicles, and support to a fast-growing network of over 48,000 drivers. These drivers don’t just earn a living; they gain access to tools and training that allow them to grow. The result? An average 65% increase in driver earnings over 591 million trips completed, and more than 679,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions prevented through MAX’s growing electric vehicle ecosystem.

Chinedu’s focus on safety, structure, and upward mobility is what sets MAX apart. Drivers undergo psychometric testing, structured onboarding, and regular safety training. They’re equipped with helmets, hygiene kits, and digital tools. The commitment to excellence has earned MAX not just customer trust, but also investor confidence. In 2019, the company secured a record-breaking $7.5 million Series A round from global giants including Yamaha, Mastercard, and Breakthrough Energy Ventures.

His leadership has earned him several prestigious accolades: a $200,000 Lila Self Leadership Academy scholarship, recognition as a Forbes Africa 30-under-30 finalist, and participation in some of the world’s most selective innovation fellowships including Techstars NYC, Alibaba eFounder, Mastercard StartPath, and more.

Chinedu is not just building a company—he’s building a movement that empowers individuals, reduces environmental impact, and transforms how millions navigate their daily lives.