Nigeria is taking bold steps towards sustainable transportation with the introduction of NEV T6 electric buses in Abuja. The initiative aims to cut carbon emissions, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and provide clean, cost-effective public transport.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Enoh, emphasized the country’s commitment to electric mobility, aligning with the National Automotive Industrial Development Plan, which targets a 30% growth in electric vehicle adoption.
He addressed skepticism about EVs, stating, “A lot of Nigerians look at electric vehicles as impossible. I mean, people are not able to accommodate that in their heads. And I think that is what is required to make a success in life, to start from a point of impossibility.”
Enoh underscored Nigeria’s potential, comparing its capabilities to China and India. “Nigeria is such a big and great country. When we talk about China and India, we should also talk about Nigeria and all the advantages that Nigeria brings. And I think that people like you are taking the most advantage of that.”
Highlighting the urgency of the transition, he added, “Yes, electric vehicles are the future. But electric vehicles, that future starts today. We must promote that future today and try to make sure that we achieve it because we are ready for it.”
The Minister of Science and Technology, Mr. Uche Nnaji, also spoke on the importance of leveraging Nigeria’s natural resources for 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.”
Joseph Osanipin, Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), emphasized affordability, saying, “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.”
He further highlighted the environmental benefits of electric buses: “The buses we are inaugurating today are 100 per cent electric, which means zero emissions, and we know what that signifies for our health and our environment. We have to embrace clean energy, and the inauguration of these buses is our own way of doing that.”
Mosope Olaosebikan, CEO of NEV Motors, described the launch as a milestone in Nigeria’s clean mobility journey. “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 concluded with a strong message to skeptics: “And to anyone still wondering whether Nigeria is ready for electric mobility, let me say this loud and clear: Not only are we ready—we are leading.”
