The North East Development Commission (NEDC) is set to launch an innovative fleet of solar-powered vehicles, which will include a nine-seater tricycle, a four-seater taxi, and a 40-seater bus, aimed at transforming inter-state transportation in the North East.

During a meeting held in Maiduguri with representatives from the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers and the National Association of Transport Owners, NEDC General Manager Mohammed Goni announced that this initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for advancing the transportation sector.

Goni stated, “We have secured the necessary approval from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and today’s meeting is to discuss how we can implement this project together. NATO and NURTW are crucial partners in Nigeria’s road transport system, and we are committed to collaborating closely with you.”

The plan involves introducing three main vehicle types: a nine-seater solar-powered tricycle, a four-seater solar-powered taxi, and a 40-seater bus, with an ambitious goal of deploying 10,000 tricycles. Goni emphasized that the tricycles would significantly enhance transportation coverage across the North East.

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Highlighting the initiative’s sustainability focus, he mentioned that the NEDC aims to harness the region’s abundant sunlight to power these vehicles.

Goni added, “Our fully charged buses will be able to travel up to 300 kilometers, and we are also planning training sessions for drivers and NEDC staff to ensure smooth operations.”

This initiative reflects the NEDC’s commitment to improving transportation in the North East and providing relief to commuters. Goni urged the unions to prioritize effective management of the new vehicles.

In response, Adama Tukur, Chairman of Taraba State NATO, praised the NEDC for this forward-thinking innovation, recognizing it as a significant contribution to combating climate change. “In just a few years, you have accomplished so much, and now we see this remarkable development again. We truly appreciate you and your team,” he remarked.

Similarly, Ahmodu Musa, Secretary of NURTW in Borno State, commended the initiative and stressed the need for proper deployment of the vehicles to ensure its success.