NEDC to Introduce Electric Vehicles in Northeast Following President Tinubu’s Clean Energy Directive
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) is set to launch electric vehicles (EVs) in Northeast Nigeria, following President Bola Tinubu’s directive to promote cleaner energy solutions. The Managing Director of NEDC, Mohammed Alkali, shared this development after meeting with the president at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday.
Alkali explained that the commission conducted an extensive analysis comparing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles and electric vehicles, ultimately concluding that EVs are better suited for the region. He highlighted plans to build modular solar power units across the six states in the Northeast, which will serve as the primary energy source for the EV fleet.
The electric vehicle initiative will include three main categories:
- E-buses – Designed for intra-state travel, with a minimum capacity of 40 passengers per trip.
- E-taxis – Capable of transporting three passengers along with the driver.
- Modified e-tricycles – Enhanced to carry eight passengers, including the driver, with stronger tires and a sturdier build to handle the region’s terrain.
Alkali emphasized the use of local content in fabricating the vehicles, noting that the vehicle bodies could be manufactured locally in the Northeast or other parts of Nigeria.
“We analyzed both CNG and electric vehicles and concluded that for the Northeast, EVs are the better option. Our plan is to create modular solar power units across the region to support these EVs,” Alkali stated. “We presented the framework to President Tinubu, who graciously approved the deployment of these electric vehicles in the region.”
He also mentioned that the commission has designed a comprehensive master plan consisting of 11 pillars that will guide the full implementation of the project. Before rolling out the EVs, the NEDC will engage with key stakeholders, including road transport workers, to ensure their input and concerns are considered in the final deployment.
This initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s vision of transforming Nigeria’s transportation system through clean energy, and it marks a significant step towards achieving sustainability and modern mobility in the region.
