By Obike Ukoh.
An electric car.
(C) Premium Times.
The world is moving towards green transportation. Instead of the gas guzzlers, called Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, there is a rush towards something much cleaner and greener: Electric Vehicles (EVs).
Experts say, that EVs are like modern champions, silently drawing power from rechargeable batteries, which act as their lifeblood.
“These batteries energize electric motors, propelling the vehicle forward with a whisper rather than a roar.’’
They postulate that, for example in country like India that has embraced EVs, by 2027 over nine million EVs may hit the roads every year.
The European Union (EU), is also not left out, as it aims to phase out combustion engine vehicles by 2035.
“The EU aims to put 30 million zero-emission cars on the roads and have three million public charging points across the continent by 2030.
“The EU’s target for 2050 is for the overwhelming majority of road vehicles to be zero-emission.’’
The gravitation towards EVs is obvious. Fuel prices keep going up, in addition to the issue of climate change as countries all over the world are trying various measures to combat climate change, and one way to do that is by driving EVs. Since EVs don’t run on gas but on electricity, this means they are much better for the environment.
And it’s not just about saving the planet, EVs can save car users money too! They’re cheaper to run and need as very less maintenance as compared to regular cars.
Based on the reality of global trends, experts stressed the need for Nigeria to embrace EVs to enhance economic competitiveness through reduced fuel import costs.
They also opined that it will create jobs in new industries, and diversify the economy away from oil.
Pointedly, a United States-based Nigerian expert in the automotive manufacturing industry, Sunday Aluko, has highlighted how embracing electric vehicles can drastically reduce the country’s reliance on imported fuel and revolutionise its transportation systems.
Aluko stressed the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s energy, transportation, and vehicle manufacturing sectors to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles.
The automotive expert noted that rising fuel inflation, frequent shortages, and fuel theft were compelling reasons to adopt eco-friendly electric vehicles.
He stressed the importance of prioritising electric vehicle adoption and investing in supporting infrastructure to combat environmental degradation, reduce fuel dependency, and create economic opportunities.
However, Aluko pointed out that lack of critical infrastructure, such as charging stations, remains a major barrier to adoption. He urged the government to introduce incentives, such as reducing import duties on electric vehicles and providing tax breaks for manufacturers, to encourage the shift.
“This situation underscores the importance of creating a favourable environment for electric vehicle adoption.
“Without the right policies and infrastructure, the transition will remain a distant goal,” he stated.
Aluko also advocated fostering partnerships with global electric vehicle manufacturers to accelerate local production capabilities, lower costs, and generate job opportunities.
“The more we invest in electric vehicle infrastructure and awareness, the faster we can reduce our dependence on imported fuel and improve transportation efficiency for Nigerians.”
He further called for innovative approaches to promote electric vehicle adoption in Nigeria, including solar-powered charging stations and affordable financing options for consumers.
Aluko maintained that these strategies would be the first steps toward reducing fuel dependency and positioning Nigeria as a leader in sustainable transportation in Africa.
“With the right policies, infrastructure, and public awareness, Nigeria can transition to electric vehicles, creating a future of economic growth, environmental sustainability, and energy independence,” he stressed.
Also Engr. Samuel Akhibi,
Founder/CEO Sure Mech Nig. Ltd, echoed the imperative of Nigeria embracing EVs.
According to him, it is no longer news that the cost of petrol has skyrocketed following the removal of fuel subsidies.
“ Daily, we struggle with high transportation costs, increasing vehicle maintenance expenses, and environmental challenges caused by pollution from gasoline-powered cars.
“ But what if there was a better alternative, one that saves you money, reduces pollution, and leverages Nigeria’s natural resources?
He affirmed that, that alternative is Electric Vehicles (EVs).
He regretted that while many countries are transitioning away from petrol and diesel, Nigeria still heavily depends on gasoline powered cars, adding that, it is time we embrace cleaner and more cost-effective solutions.
Akhibi reiterated that EVs will reduce the cost of transportation, noting that with petrol prices hitting record highs, running a vehicle has become a major financial
burden for many Nigerians.
“EVs will eliminate fuel costs completely and rely on electricity, which can be
generated from solar or other renewable sources.
“Imagine paying half the amount you currently spend on petrol, this is the financial relief that EVs offers.
“Why should we keep spending billions importing petrol when we have a cheaper, locally available alternative?’’
Akhibi also listed the other known advantages of EVs viz: “EVs produce zero emissions, making them the cleanest option.
“A cleaner environment means fewer health problems, less smog in cities, and a “safer climate for future generations.
“If we want our children to grow up in healthier surroundings, we must reduce petrol dependency and embrace cleaner alternatives.
“EVs have lower maintenance costs as they have fewer moving parts, eliminating frequent oil changes and engine repairs.
“Instead of spending heavily on car repairs due to the effects of bad fuel, we should invest in vehicles that last longer and cost less to maintain.’’
He stressed that the world is moving away from petrol, stressing that “Nigeria must catch up, if we do not act now, Nigeria risks being left behind in the future of transportation.
“ We must embrace innovation and lead the transition in Africa.’’
Akhibi also emphasized that: “The time for c hange is now, the high cost of petrol is affecting everyone—from car owners to business owners, students to professionals. “We can no longer ignore better and more sustainable alternatives.
“EVs is the future, and the benefits are clear: Lower fuel and transportation costs,
reduced pollution and better air quality,
less vehicle maintenance and repair expenses, stronger national economy through local energy use,’’ among others.
In fact, Nigeria appears to be ready to join the league of nation of electric vehicle users.
Just recently, a bill for transition to electric vehicles, green mobility scales second reading in the Senate.
The bill aims to position Nigeria to benefit from the global shift toward green transportation by encouraging investment, innovation, and industrial growth in the electric vehicle sector.
It also seeks to guide the country’s gradual shift from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to cleaner, energy-efficient electric vehicles in line with international environmental commitments.
Titled “A Bill for an Act to Establish a Comprehensive Framework for the Transition to Electric Vehicles in Nigeria, Promote Local Manufacturing, Ensure Environmental Sustainability and Drive Economic Growth and for Related Matters.
The bill is sponsored by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North).
Leading the debate, Kalu highlighted the vast economic potential of embracing electric mobility.
“The global electric vehicle industry is projected to exceed USD 1.5 trillion by 2030.
“Nigeria, with its large population and abundant mineral resources such as lithium and nickel, stands to benefit immensely from local EVs manufacturing and battery production.”
Kalu said Nigeria faces twin challenges of environmental degradation and energy dependency, noting that the transport sector accounts for about 25–30% of total greenhouse gas emissions, with more than 12 million registered vehicles, almost all powered by petrol or diesel.
“While advanced nations are electrifying their transport systems, and African economies like South Africa and Kenya have adopted national EVs policies, Nigeria risks being left behind if we do not act decisively,” he warned.
Kalu listed the gains of passing the bill into law to include: gradual transition from fossil-fuel-powered vehicles to electric and hybrid vehicles.
Establishment of the National Electric Vehicle Development and Promotion Council (NEVDPC) to coordinate and regulate EVs policies nationwide.
Encouraging local manufacturing and assembly of EVs, batteries, and components through incentives and public-private partnerships.
Development of a nationwide EVs charging infrastructure, among others.
Emphasizing the bill’s significance, Kalu said it is about economic transformation and energy independence, not just environmental protection.
Describing the bill as “visionary and timely,” Kalu said it aligns with the Federal Government’s drive toward industrial diversification, environmental sustainability, and innovation-led growth.
“By passing this Bill, we will be taking a bold step towards modernizing our transport sector and positioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s green mobility revolution,” he added.
Kalu also reiterated the advantages of EVs over ICE, stressing that electric motor technology is accelerating at a rapid rate, and it is only a matter of time before electric motors become the dominant choice, particularly in transportation.
“As global fuel prices remain volatile, exacerbated by shifts in global power, and other world events, and various emissions targets and regulations are introduced, the shift to a healthier, more efficient world powered by renewable energy sources sounds more appealing every day.
“ So, why wouldn’t we want to switch to electric motors?’’
It is already clear and evident that Nigeria it itching towards joining the global trend of EVs user countries. The timely passage of Kalu’s bill into law will make it a dream come true. (ENDS)
Obike Ukoh, Former Deputy Editor-In-Chief, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
