NEDC Sensitises Transport Operators Ahead Of 10,330 Electric Vehicle Rollout In North-East

NEDC Sensitises Transport Operators Ahead Of 10,330 Electric Vehicle Rollout in North-East

The North-East Development Commission (NEDC) has commenced engagements with transport sector stakeholders ahead of the planned deployment of 10,330 electric vehicles across the six states of the North-East region.

The initiative comprises 10,000 electric tricycles, 300 electric taxis and 30 electric buses to be distributed across Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe states.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement and sensitisation workshop in Gombe, the NEDC State Coordinator, Usman Muhammad, said the programme was designed to promote affordable, environmentally friendly transportation while creating employment opportunities for young people.

Muhammad explained that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on economic empowerment, job creation and sustainable transportation.

He said the workshop was organised to educate transport operators on the operations, benefits and maintenance requirements of electric vehicles, while also gathering their contributions to ensure the effective implementation and long-term sustainability of the programme.

According to him, the adoption of electric vehicles would reduce dependence on conventional fuels, lower transportation and operating costs, and create employment opportunities in vehicle operations, charging services and maintenance.

The Chairman of Tricycle Operators in Gombe State, Abdullahi Muhammad, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a potential boost for operators struggling with high fuel and vehicle maintenance costs.

He noted that the programme could improve operators’ earnings and provide employment opportunities for young people across the region.

However, he stressed the need for adequate charging infrastructure, comprehensive training for beneficiaries and reliable access to technical support and spare parts to ensure the smooth operation of the vehicles.

Similarly, the Chairman of Motorcycle Operators in Gombe State, Kabiru Jafaru, expressed support for the initiative, noting that the sensitisation exercise would help prepare transport operators for the transition to cleaner and more sustainable mobility.

Jafaru urged the Commission to ensure transparency and fairness in the selection of beneficiaries, stressing that eligible youths and transport operators should have equitable access to the opportunities provided by the programme.

The planned deployment is expected to strengthen sustainable transportation across the North-East, stimulate economic activities and expand employment opportunities, particularly for young people.