Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has launched a ₦1 billion transport intervention programme, including the distribution of 500 electric tricycles to operators in Maiduguri metropolis and Jere Local Government Area.
The initiative, targeting 1,000 Keke NAPEP riders, forms part of the state government’s broader strategy to modernise urban mobility, reduce operating costs, and cushion the economic burden on commuters and transport workers.
The eco-friendly tricycles were initially inaugurated on December 20, 2025, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reflecting collaboration between the federal and Borno State governments to advance sustainable transportation solutions.
Speaking at the launch held at the Government House in Maiduguri, Governor Zulum described the programme as a targeted intervention aimed at empowering vulnerable transport operators while promoting environmental sustainability.
“This initiative goes beyond the distribution of tricycles; it is about restoring dignity, improving livelihoods, and delivering a more efficient and affordable transport system,” he said.
He noted that the electric tricycles, procured earlier, are designed to lower fuel dependence and operational costs, while contributing to a cleaner urban environment.
To enhance affordability, the state government will subsidise 30 per cent of the cost of each tricycle, with beneficiaries expected to repay the balance under a structured plan supervised by a designated committee.
“The subsidy is intended to ease financial pressure on beneficiaries and ensure the programme remains inclusive and sustainable,” the governor added, urging strict compliance with operational guidelines.
In addition to the vehicle distribution, Zulum announced a direct financial support scheme for 16,783 registered riders across 25 transport associations, with each beneficiary to receive ₦50,000 to mitigate prevailing economic challenges.
He said the combined ₦1 billion package underscores his administration’s commitment to strengthening the informal transport sector, a critical driver of urban mobility and employment in the state.
Chairman of the Borno State Empowerment Committee, Saina Buba, disclosed that each electric tricycle has a range of approximately 65 kilometres per charge, making them efficient and cost-effective for daily use.
He added that beneficiaries were selected transparently through their respective associations, without political interference, to ensure fairness and credibility.
The event was attended by senior government officials, lawmakers, and political stakeholders, highlighting the programme’s significance to Borno State’s economic recovery and development agenda.
Analysts say the initiative could serve as a model for subnational governments seeking to integrate clean energy into public transportation while addressing unemployment and rising living costs.
