By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has launched a N1 billion transport empowerment initiative alongside the distribution of 500 electric tricycles to operators across Maiduguri metropolis and Jere Local Government Area.
The initiative, which targets about 1,000 beneficiaries, is part of the state government’s broader efforts to modernize the transport sector, promote environmental sustainability, and cushion the effects of economic hardship on residents.
The eco-friendly tricycles were earlier inaugurated on December 20, 2025, by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to innovation and sustainable urban mobility.
Speaking at the official launch held at the Government House, Maiduguri, Governor Zulum described the programme as a strategic intervention aimed at empowering less-privileged tricycle operators while reducing transportation costs for the public.
According to him, the distribution of the electric tricycles marks a significant milestone in the state’s drive toward a cleaner and more efficient transport system.
“These electric tricycles represent a major step in modernizing our transport sector and advancing environmental sustainability, while also improving the livelihoods of our people,” the governor stated.
Zulum disclosed that the state government would subsidize 30 percent of the cost of each tricycle to ensure affordability for beneficiaries, noting that a designated committee would oversee the payment structure and implementation process.
He urged beneficiaries to adhere strictly to the operational guidelines, emphasizing that compliance is critical to ensuring accountability and the long-term success of the scheme.
In addition to the tricycle distribution, the governor announced a N1 billion financial support package for registered operators, revealing that 16,783 Keke Napep riders drawn from 25 associations would each receive ₦50,000 to mitigate the impact of economic challenges.
Chairman of the Borno State Empowerment Committee, Hon. Saina Buba, highlighted the efficiency of the electric tricycles, stating that each unit can travel up to 65 kilometers on a single charge.
He added that beneficiaries were transparently selected through their respective associations without external interference.
The event attracted top government functionaries and political stakeholders, including Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno; Senator representing Borno Central, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan; members of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdulkadir Rahis and Hon. Bukar Talba, among others.
The initiative underscores the Borno State Government’s commitment to economic inclusion, sustainable transportation, and targeted social intervention programmes aimed at improving the welfare of its citizens.
