The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce 10,000 electric tricycles into Nigeria’s transportation sector in August 2026 as part of efforts to promote cleaner mobility and improve public transport services.
Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed the plan during a meeting with members of the Transporters for Tinubu/Shettima 2027 group. According to him, the initiative will initially be driven by the North East Development Commission and will cover communities across the North-East before expanding to other regions.
Shettima said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the extension of the programme through regional development commissions to ensure wider national coverage.
The Vice President explained that the administration is pursuing a broader transport reform agenda aimed at creating a more efficient logistics network. He noted that the government wants stronger connections between seaports, rail lines, roads, airports and inland waterways to ease the movement of goods and people across the country.
He added that investments in transport infrastructure and alternative energy solutions are expected to reduce operating costs for transport workers while boosting economic activities in key sectors such as trade, agriculture and manufacturing.
Shettima also highlighted progress under the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas programme, saying the initiative has demonstrated that locally sourced gas can provide a cheaper alternative to conventional fuels. He noted that many heavy-duty vehicles have already switched to CNG, helping operators cut transportation expenses.
According to him, the government remains committed to improving conditions for transport workers through affordable energy options, better infrastructure and policies that support sustainable business operations.
Meanwhile, Technical Adviser to the Vice President on Transportation, Logistics and Innovation, Prince Segun Obayendo, said transport unions representing road, rail, maritime and aviation workers have expressed support for the Tinubu administration ahead of the 2027 elections.
Also speaking, Secretary-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, Comrade Oniha Erazua, praised the government’s engagement with transport stakeholders and expressed confidence that ongoing reforms would deliver long-term benefits to the sector.
