Nigeria Boosts Domestic Electric Vehicle Production with Presidential and State-Level Support
Key Insights
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule have been commended for their support of local electric vehicle manufacturing.
The Electric Motor Vehicle Company (EMVC) unveiled indigenously produced electric SUVs, sedans, tricycles, and motorcycles, designed for Nigerian road conditions.
EMVC is deploying solar-powered charging stations across Nasarawa State, offering affordable charging solutions and reducing reliance on the national grid.
This initiative aligns with global efforts to transition from fossil fuels, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and enhance clean energy adoption in Nigeria.
Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule have received commendation for their pivotal roles in advancing indigenous electric vehicle (EV) production within Nigeria. The endorsement follows the recent commissioning of locally manufactured electric vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles in Nasarawa State, a significant step towards sustainable mobility in the West African nation.
Prince Mustapha Audu, Chief Executive Officer of Electric Motor Vehicle Company (EMVC), lauded both leaders, highlighting Governor Sule's proactive support for the initiative. Governor Sule articulated plans to integrate these electric vehicles into Nasarawa's transportation ecosystem, aiming to alleviate transit challenges for residents while substantially reducing the state's dependence on fossil fuels. This move positions Nasarawa at the forefront of Nigeria's clean energy transition.
EMVC, identified as a prominent Nigerian electric vehicle manufacturer with operations extending beyond Nasarawa, showcased a diverse range of products. These include electric SUVs capable of an impressive 1,200 km per charge, sedan models optimized for ride-hailing services with a 400 km range, and robust, locally-made electric tricycles and motorcycles, colloquially known as "Igwe," specifically engineered for Nigerian road conditions. Audu emphasized the global imperative to transition towards electric mobility, noting the impending 2030 deadline for many countries to phase out compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles.
A cornerstone of EMVC's strategy is the development of supporting infrastructure. The company is deploying solar-powered charging stations designed to operate independently of the national grid or generators. Each station can simultaneously charge three vehicles, with plans to expand capacity to five charging points in the near term. Audu stated that a full charge for a vehicle could cost as little as ₦5,000, depending on battery capacity, making electric transportation economically viable for consumers.
These vehicles are powered by advanced lithium batteries, chosen for their efficiency in reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy utilization. To ensure long-term adoption and operational sustainability, EMVC is also establishing local battery assembly lines, comprehensive EV repair centers, and training hubs across Nasarawa State. Audu expressed strong confidence in the durability and performance of these locally manufactured EVs, urging Nigerians to embrace this cleaner, more cost-effective transportation alternative. This initiative underscores Nigeria's commitment to fostering a greener economy and addressing climate change through technological innovation.