By Abigail Philip David
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has unveiled plans to introduce solar-powered vehicles, including a nine-seater tricycle, a four-seater taxi, and a 40-seater bus, aimed at enhancing inter-state transportation across the North East region.
During a meeting in Maiduguri on Wednesday with the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the National Association of Transport Owners (NATO), NEDC General Manager Mohammed Goni explained that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for transforming the transportation sector.
He said, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the initiative, and we are now engaging key stakeholders like NATO and NURTW to discuss the operational modalities. These unions are essential to the road transportation system, and we are committed to working closely with them.”
Goni highlighted the Commission’s plans to roll out three types of solar-powered vehicles: a nine-seater tricycle, a four-seater taxi, and a 40-seater bus. He announced plans to deploy 10,000 tricycles, which will play a significant role in covering the North East region. Fully charged buses are expected to travel up to 300 kilometers, and training sessions will be organized for drivers and NEDC staff to ensure smooth operations.
He assured that this initiative reflects the NEDC’s commitment to improving transportation in the region, urging transport unions to prioritize proper management of the new system.
In response, Taraba State NATO Chairman Adama Tukur praised the NEDC for the innovative solution, recognizing it as a vital step in combating climate change. “In just a few years, you’ve made tremendous progress, and now with this development, we are truly grateful,” he said.
Ahmodu Musa, Secretary of NURTW in Borno State, also lauded the initiative, emphasizing the need for effective deployment to ensure its success.
