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NIGERIA, 18 June 2023: The Nigerian government has announced plans to mass produce electric vehicles (EVs) and compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered vehicles in the country. The move is part of the government’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal.
EVs and CNG-powered vehicles
The National Economic Council (NEC), which is the highest economic decision-making body in Nigeria, has thrown its backing to the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) to begin mass production of EVs and CNG-powered vehicles.
The NADDC Director-General, Jelani Aliyu, said modalities are already in place especially with the commencement of electric vehicles assembly in the country. He stressed the need for adequate legislations to enable mass production of the vehicles.
The NEC meeting also considered the need to give legislative support to automotive companies that are doing great things in the country. Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, who spoke to the media at the end of the meeting said some of the decisions taken during the meeting included the need to:
- Give legislative support to automotive companies that are doing great things in the country.
- Provide funding for vehicle manufacturers and assemblers.
- Reduce the dependence on PMS and other fossil fuel powered vehicles.
The government’s decision to mass produce EVs and CNG-powered vehicles is a positive step towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner environment. It is a step in the right direction, and it will be interesting to see how the government implements its plan. It is also a way to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal, which has been a major source of discontent in the country.
The government’s plan is estimated to create about a million jobs in the automotive sector. This is a welcome development, as it will help to boost the economy and create opportunities for Nigerians.
