A Quiet Revolution: The Rise of Electric Cars in Maiduguri, Northeastern Nigeria

In the heart of Maiduguri, the bustling Post Office area has become a focal point for a transformative shift in transportation. Once a rarity in the region, electric cars are now making their presence felt, providing a cleaner, more sustainable alternative for daily commuters. This shift is not just a trend; it represents a quiet revolution in the way residents of northeastern Nigeria navigate their city.

Embracing Change: The Commuter Experience

Among the early adopters of this new mode of transportation is Hadiza Abdullahi, a Maiduguri resident who has embraced electric taxis for her daily commute. As she waits for her ride on a busy Monday morning, Hadiza reflects on the numerous benefits she has experienced since making the switch. “The electric car is much less expensive, doesn’t pollute the environment, and is more convenient than conventional cars,” she shares. Her hope is that more electric vehicles will populate the roads, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable environment in Borno State.

Similarly, Lawan Bukar Maigana, another resident, has been using electric taxis for five months and praises their comfort and affordability. “Before, I spent at least ₦20,000 monthly on transportation. Now, I only spend about ₦10,000,” he explains, highlighting the significant savings these electric vehicles offer. Lawan also emphasizes the climate-friendly nature of electric cars, which produce zero emissions, thereby reducing the risks associated with climate change. He advocates for an increase in the number of electric vehicles and suggests the government reintroduce rechargeable bikes, which were recently banned, to further enhance transportation options in the metropolis.

The Government’s Initiative: A Sustainable Solution

The driving force behind this initiative is the Borno State government, which has recognized the urgent need to alleviate the financial burdens faced by its citizens while addressing pressing environmental concerns. On December 11, 2023, the state government launched 50 electric taxis, marking a significant step towards sustainable transportation.

This initiative aims not only to create jobs but also to provide a viable alternative in light of rising fuel prices due to the removal of fuel subsidies in Nigeria. “Unlike conventional cars that emit carbon dioxide and contribute to global warming, these electric cars are smokeless. This is why the state government initiated the idea of introducing smokeless electric cars,” explains Usman Aliyu, an environmental scientist and the director-general of the state’s Agency for the Great Green Wall. The government’s dual focus on cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability is evident in this initiative.

From an economic perspective, the shift to electric cars is equally promising. Jidda Abdulrahman Ajayi, an economist at the University of Maiduguri, notes that government subsidies have made these vehicles affordable during challenging times. “A litre of petrol costs up to ₦1,000, but with just ₦100, you can travel to various locations in these electric cars,” he states. This reduction in fuel dependency not only saves residents money but also contributes to a more stable local economy, potentially paving the way for further investments in renewable energy.

Navigating Challenges: The Road Ahead

Despite the positive reception of electric cars in Maiduguri, challenges remain. Gambo Maina, the chairman of Taxi Drivers in Borno State, explains that drivers typically charge their vehicles overnight, allowing them to operate throughout the day without needing a recharge. Maintenance of these vehicles is less challenging than traditional taxis, with the most common issues being tire-related, which are managed by a dedicated mechanical workshop.

However, the limited number of charging stations poses a significant hurdle. Muhammad Adam, one of the electric car drivers, recalls his struggles to find charging points, which hindered his ability to operate efficiently. “For smooth movement, we need more charging stations,” he asserts. Jidda echoes this concern, noting that the three-hour charging time and limited charging points could delay daily operations. In response, Usman Aliyu confirmed that the government is aware of this issue and has plans to increase the number of electric cars and charging stations across the state.

Maina mentioned that at least six new charging points are expected to become operational soon, located at key areas such as Terminus, Baga Road, and the Borno Express area. However, he emphasizes that these stations require a constant power supply to function effectively.

A Vision for the Future

Muhammad Adam believes that the introduction of electric cars has elevated Maiduguri’s status on both the national and global stage, positioning it as a pioneer in adopting electric vehicles. “These cars have fewer challenges compared to conventional cars. They only need the power to charge and have minimal maintenance costs,” he explains.

For Usman Aliyu, the future of Borno State lies in a transportation system dominated by electric vehicles, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier population. He envisions a future where transportation in Borno relies entirely on electric or solar power, particularly given the high petroleum prices. Discussions with the state’s Commissioner of Transportation and the Ministry of Environment are on the horizon to explore this model further.

Jidda agrees, emphasizing that the economic benefits could be far-reaching, especially if the initiative sparks broader interest in green technologies. The potential for job creation, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability is immense, and the residents of Maiduguri are at the forefront of this exciting transition.

Conclusion

The rise of electric cars in Maiduguri represents more than just a shift in transportation; it embodies a broader movement towards sustainability and economic resilience in northeastern Nigeria. As residents embrace this innovative mode of transport, the hope for a cleaner, more efficient, and economically viable future becomes increasingly tangible. With the support of the government and the community, Maiduguri is poised to lead the way in the electric vehicle revolution, setting an example for other regions to follow.