The Nigerian Senate has moved closer to adopting clean energy transportation after a bill seeking to phase out petrol-powered cars and promote electric vehicles (EVs) scaled second reading on Tuesday.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, aims to provide the legal and policy framework for Nigeria’s transition from fossil fuel dependence to electric mobility. Kalu explained that the bill would help reduce carbon emissions, encourage local vehicle production, and align the country with global efforts toward sustainable transport.
According to him, the transport sector contributes between 20 and 30 percent of Nigeria’s greenhouse gas emissions. “This bill seeks to establish a comprehensive legal and institutional framework to guide Nigeria’s gradual move from petrol-powered vehicles to cleaner, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly alternatives,” he said.
The bill also proposes creating a National Electric Vehicle Development and Promotion Council to coordinate policy implementation at all levels of government.
In support of the proposal, Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) described it as timely, noting that countries like Kenya and South Africa are already progressing in electric mobility. He said adopting EVs would reduce emissions in cities such as Lagos and Kano, improve public health, and create new jobs.
Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West) added that Nigeria’s population gives it a critical role in global climate action, while Senator Titus Zam (Benue North-West) highlighted the environmental and health gains of the transition.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the initiative, calling it a “very good innovation,” and expressed confidence in its potential impact. The bill has been forwarded to the Senate Committee on Industries for further consideration, with a report expected in four weeks.
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