North-East Development Commission Plans Deployment of Over 10,000 Electric Vehicles

The North-East Development Commission (NEDC) is planning to roll out 10,330 electric vehicles across six states in Nigeria’s North-East region. This initiative aims to lower transportation costs and create job opportunities. The project includes 10,000 electric tricycles, 300 electric taxis, and 30 electric buses, in partnership with Attahir Enterprises Nigeria Limited.

During a recent workshop in Bauchi, NEDC’s Bauchi State Coordinator, Aliyu Isiyaku, explained that the project is designed to provide affordable and environmentally friendly transportation. The workshop gathered various stakeholders, including transport operators, security agencies, traditional rulers, and civil society groups, to discuss the initiative.

Isiyaku emphasized the importance of community involvement for the project’s success. He stated that the initiative would not only create jobs but also help reduce harmful emissions. The outcome of this initial phase will determine whether the deployment of electric vehicles will expand further in the region.

Umar Abacha, CEO of Attahir Enterprises, mentioned that the electric vehicles can travel up to 300 kilometers on a full charge. The buses and taxis will mainly serve urban areas, while charging stations will be set up to support their use. Each electric tricycle will come with two charging units, allowing operators to charge their vehicles at home.

Local leaders, including the District Head of Shafa, Lawal Mohammed, and transport union officials, expressed their support for the initiative. They highlighted the potential benefits of electric vehicles in reducing transport costs and improving livelihoods. However, they stressed the need for transparency in distributing the vehicles, suggesting that transport unions should be involved in selecting beneficiaries.

Concerns were raised about ensuring the sustainability of the project and proper management of the vehicles. Stakeholders called for clear guidelines on vehicle use and maintenance to protect the investment. They also urged that the distribution process should be fair and based on genuine need rather than political connections.

Overall, the NEDC’s electric vehicle initiative is seen as a promising step toward improving transportation in the North-East while also addressing environmental concerns.