FG to deploy 10,000 electric tricycles to boost transport system nationwide — Shettima

By Precious Mark

The Federal Government has announced plans to deploy 10,000 electric tricycles as part of efforts to improve public transportation and reduce logistics pressure across the country.

Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this in a statement on Monday while receiving a delegation of The Transporters for Tinubu/Shettima 2027 at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He said the initiative is part of a broader national transport reform aimed at modernising Nigeria’s mobility system through cleaner and more efficient energy-driven solutions.

Shettima explained that the tricycles would be distributed through the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in August 2026, with initial rollout focused on the North-East region before expansion to other parts of the country.

According to him, President Bola Tinubu has approved the expansion of the project nationwide through various regional development commissions.

He said the administration was working to integrate key sectors of transportation, including rail, ports, aviation, inland waterways and road networks into a unified logistics system that supports economic growth.

The Vice President said the policy direction is anchored on reducing transport inefficiencies and improving commercial activities across sectors.

“The priority of this administration is to move Nigeria from a fragmented transport system to an integrated logistics chain where ports, rail lines, CNG-powered trucks, inland waterways, airports and feeder roads work together,” Shettima said.

He added that the government’s transport reform agenda is also focused on expanding the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), upgrading major ports, and strengthening logistics infrastructure nationwide.

“We are investing massively in green technology, electric buses, electric cars and electric tricycles,” he said.

Shettima noted that the reforms are expected to ease transportation costs, create jobs, and support economic activities across the country, particularly in the informal transport sector.

The Federal Government is expected to commence implementation of the programme through the NEDC in the coming months ahead of the August 2026 rollout.