By The Analyst Online Media
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) is set to deploy 10,000 electric tricycles across the North-East geopolitical zone in August as part of a major clean transportation initiative aimed at reducing mobility costs, expanding access to affordable transport, and accelerating Nigeria's transition to sustainable energy.
The announcement was made by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a courtesy visit by members of the Transporters for Tinubu/Shettima group at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He explained that the programme forms part of the Federal Government's broader transport reform agenda designed to modernise the nation's mobility and logistics ecosystem.
According to the Vice President, the electric tricycles will initially be distributed by the NEDC to communities across the North-East before the initiative is replicated in other regions through the country's regional development commissions following President Bola Tinubu's approval.
Shettima said the Tinubu administration is committed to building an integrated transport network that connects roads, railways, ports, airports and inland waterways while embracing cleaner energy technologies to enhance economic growth and national productivity.
He noted that the initiative is expected to ease transportation challenges, lower operating costs for commercial transport operators, create employment opportunities and contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
The programme also aligns with Nigeria's broader energy transition strategy and efforts to promote electric mobility as part of measures to reduce carbon emissions and improve urban transportation.
Stakeholders, however, say the long-term success of the initiative will depend on the timely provision of charging infrastructure, maintenance facilities, technical support and policies that encourage widespread adoption of electric vehicles across the country.
The North-East, comprising Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe states, is expected to be the first beneficiary of the initiative, with the Federal Government expressing confidence that the programme will boost economic recovery and improve the livelihoods of residents in the region.