NEDC Introduces Electric Vehicles In Northeast States

By Bukar BOLORI

The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has announced plans to introduce e-mobility for commercial purposes in all six states of the Northeast region.

This is part of the initiatives of the Commission to reduce hardships on the people of the region which comprises Taraba, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa and Borno States caused by removal of subsidy on petroleum products.

The project, which has been approved by President Bola Tinubu, will commence soon after final deliberations with a Joint State Committee of the six states comprising the NEDC.

The e-mobility project, according to the NEDC Managing Director/CEO, Alhaji Mohammed Alkali will provide tricycles, taxis, and buses for intra and inter-state services, reducing reliance on gas and petrol.

He revealed that the project will be implemented in phases, based on individual state needs, and will include training and maintenance schedules for staff, road unions, and beneficiaries, adding that the e-mobility vehicles will be provided on loan, with flexible terms and conditions determined by the Joint Committee.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Alkali solicited the support and cooperation from union leaders and members to ensure the project’s success.

He noted that the project is expected to influence rapid development in the region.

Meanwhile, the MD/CEO of the NEDC has directed the management of Al Ansar University to forward their demands to the commission for consideration.

The university has sought the support and assistance from the commission, which include educational facilities, mobility provision, solar energy systems, ICT facilities, and research funds.

The NEDC is in the habit of assisting and supporting many tertiary institutions in the region as part of its mandate to promote and develop the educational sector.

The NEDC also requested a proposal from Al Ansar FM 96.1 Radio Station for a retainership on some radio programmes, especially in local languages, to reach a wider audience.