President Bola Tinubu has launched a nationwide Electric Tricycle Empowerment Initiative aimed at reducing transport costs, expanding clean-energy mobility, and creating new job opportunities for young Nigerians.
The programme, unveiled on Thursday in Abuja, is being implemented by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in partnership with House of Destiny Global Services and the National Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association (NATOMORAS).
Tinubu was represented at the event by the Minister of Labour and Productivity, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi.
Speaking at the launch, the President said the introduction of electric tricycles reflects his administration’s drive to build a greener and more inclusive economy.
He described the scheme as a pathway for young people to become self-employed and active contributors to national development.
According to him, the initiative supports Nigeria’s energy transition agenda, adding that electric tricycles can cut transport costs by as much as 40 per cent while reducing emissions associated with petrol-powered models.
Tinubu praised the Ministry of Youth Development for championing the venture, saying it demonstrates the government’s determination to promote cleaner transport, lower pollution and expand sustainable employment opportunities.
The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, said the programme represents a turning point for young people working in the informal economy.
Olawande described it as a central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to generate jobs, reduce emissions and support long-term economic growth.
“For too long, youth empowerment focused mainly on the formal sector. Today, under a true leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we are seeing renewed collaboration that will transform the fortunes of this country," he said.
Olawande said thousands of young Nigerians stand to benefit from opportunities in tricycle operation, repairs, battery maintenance, charging-station services and other roles within the emerging electric mobility sector.
He added that the ministry is working with NASENI to develop electric vehicles that meet global standards.
Furthermore, he announced that at least 100 start-up grants will be issued before the end of the year, with additional support programmes planned for youths in the informal sector.
The Permanent Secretary, Dr Maryam Keshinro, represented by Joseph Samuel, described the rollout as a milestone in Nigeria’s move toward technology-driven, eco-friendly transportation.
Keshinro said the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda by tackling unemployment, transport costs and environmental pressures through the expansion of green jobs.
Representing NATOMORAS, Alhaji Usman Buba Gwoza commended the government for what he termed a new dawn for the country’s transport sector.
Gwoza maintained the shift to electric tricycles would ease the burden of high fuel costs for millions of riders while supporting national climate goals.
“The introduction of electric tricycles is not just a technological milestone; it is a symbol of hope, an opportunity for cleaner energy, reduced fuel expenses and better earnings for our members,” he said.
Gwoza urged the government to provide additional electric tricycles through House of Destiny Global Services, which he described as a trusted indigenous partner.
He noted that NATOMORAS has more than 18 million registered operators across rural and urban areas, adding that widespread adoption of electric tricycles could greatly reduce youth unemployment while advancing Nigeria’s clean-energy commitments.
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