Quick Summary: Federal Government has approved ₦151.9 billion for electric buses, tricycles, and charging infrastructure in North-East Nigeria. The project, funded by the North East Development Commission (NEDC), aims to promote energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
The Federal Government has announced plans to commence mass electric vehicle transportation in North-East Nigeria. This follows the approval of N151.9 billion in contracts by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to supply electric buses, tricycles, and establish charging infrastructure in the region.
Official Statement on the Project
The announcement was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, through his official X page. He stated:
“The Tinubu administration will soon begin mass electric vehicle transportation in northeast Nigeria, with the Federal Executive Council clearing the last obstacle to implementing the plan. Last week, the Council approved contracts worth almost $100 million, or N151.9 billion, to supply buses and tricycles and establish charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.”
Funding and Implementation
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) will finance the initiative as part of efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote energy efficiency.
Breakdown of Approved Contracts
- Electric Buses: 10 electric 17-seater buses will be supplied by Bluecrest Integrated Concept Limited for N2.9 billion, with delivery expected within six months.
- Electric Tricycles: A total of 10,000 electric tricycles will be procured from multiple companies:
- 4,000 e-tricycles from Mutual Commitment Company Ltd for N49.6 billion (to be delivered in nine months).
- 3,000 e-tricycles from Shanghai Integrated Infrastructure Development for N37.2 billion.
- 3,000 e-tricycles from Sinoma Investment International Ltd.
- Each tricycle will accommodate nine passengers and a driver.
- Electric Cars and Charging Infrastructure:
- 237 electric BYD model cars will be supplied by HNCEGC for N16.3 billion.
- KB Laman Motors Nigeria Ltd will oversee the charging infrastructure for N8.4 billion.
Presidential Approval and Inspection
President Bola Tinubu had initially approved the procurement of electric vehicles in October 2024. He later inspected samples of the vehicles, chargers, and batteries to assess the project’s feasibility.
Lessons from Lagos’ Electric Vehicle Integration
This initiative mirrors similar efforts in Lagos, where electric buses are being integrated into the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. Some key developments in Lagos include:
- Oando PLC Partnership: In January 2025, Oando PLC announced a partnership with the Lagos State Government to deploy 5,000 electric buses, though no rollout timeline was provided.
- Lagos State Transport Policy: The 2024 policy aims to have 52% of BRT buses running on clean energy by 2050.
- LAMATA’s Expansion Plan: Managing Director Abimbola Akinajo disclosed that 50 electric vehicles will be added to the LAMATA-managed fleet by the last quarter of the year.
- Charging Infrastructure: The Lagos State Government is engaging with the Federal Government to develop a widespread network of charging stations across the state.
Challenges and Future Prospects
A successful rollout of electric vehicles in the North-East could accelerate nationwide adoption of electric mobility. However, key challenges remain, including:
- Electricity Supply Stability: Ensuring a reliable power source for charging stations.
- Sustainability of Charging Infrastructure: Developing long-term solutions for maintaining and expanding charging networks.
The Federal Government’s commitment to this initiative marks a significant step toward sustainable transportation and environmental conservation in Nigeria.
