Joseph Bakare
The Federal Government, has sustained measures in promoting energy efficiency and transition with inauguration of more Electric Vehicles.
The efforts aims at reducing carbon emissions as well as improving efficiency in the transportation sector.
The Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Enoh, reiterated determination of government to provide energy efficiency while inaugurating the NEV T6 electric buses on Friday in Abuja.
He said the initiative aligned with the Federal Government ’s target of achieving 30 per cent growth in electric mobility, in line with the National Automotive Industrial Development Plan (NAIDP).
Enoh, noted that the launch of the buses marks a significant step towards reshaping Nigeria’s automotive sector.
“Electric vehicles represent the future of mobility, and that future starts today.
“This launch goes beyond introducing buses; it is about embracing innovation to ensure Nigeria remains competitive in the global automotive industry,” he said.
The minister emphasised the need for local content development in the sector to enhance sustainability and economic growth.
The Minister of Science and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, reiterated the government’s commitment to utilising Nigeria’s natural resources for local EV production.
“Nigeria has abundant lithium reserves, and we are focused on processing it locally for battery production rather than exporting raw materials.
“This will support electric vehicle manufacturing, create jobs and boost the economy,” he said.
The Director-General, National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Joseph Osanipin, called for the production of more pocket friendly vehicles that would be affordable for Nigerians.
“For us in NADDC, we know that the path we are treading will lead us to sustainable mobility and we are working with relevant bodies to provide the needed infrastructure.
“The buses we are inaugurating today are 100 per cent electric which has zero emissions and we know what that signifies for our health, our environment.
“We have to embrace clean energy and the inauguration of these buses is our own way of doing that,” he said.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Khalil Halilu, said that the transition to electric mobility must be complemented by renewable energy infrastructure.
“Electric vehicles cannot be powered by fossil fuels. This shift is about more than transportation; it is a step towards revolutionising Nigeria’s energy sector.
“With our vast solar energy potential, Nigeria should be at the forefront of renewable energy solutions,” he said.
The Managing Director, Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), Mr Uzoma Nwagba, described the event as a milestone in Nigeria’s automotive industry.
“This achievement is not just for one company or individual; it is a historic moment for Nigeria. We must take pride in our progress and continue to innovate,” he said.
Nwagba also expressed the commitment of his office to ensure that Nigerians get the funds necessary to purchase the EV vehicles in the country.
The Chief Executive Officer of NEV Motors, Olaosebikan, said that unveiling of the electric buses was a demonstration of Nigeria’s readiness to adopt sustainable mobility solutions.
“There were doubts about whether EVs could work in Nigeria, but today we have proven that it is possible.
“This is not just about launching a vehicle; it is about launching a movement that positions Nigeria as a leader in clean transportation,” he said.
The NEV T6 electric buses are expected to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote affordable, clean, and efficient public transportation.
The government has pledged to support policies and investments that would facilitate the growth of the EV sector, including the development of charging infrastructure and renewable energy solutions.