The Nigerian Senate has taken a significant step towards promoting green mobility and reducing the country’s carbon footprint. On Wednesday, the Senate passed the second reading of a bill aimed at facilitating the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and establishing a legal framework for their adoption. The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, seeks to guide Nigeria’s gradual shift from petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles to cleaner, environmentally friendly alternatives.

According to Senator Kalu, the transport sector is a major contributor to national greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 25-30 percent of the total. With over 12 million registered vehicles still relying on fossil fuels, the need for a transition to EVs is becoming increasingly urgent. The bill aligns with global best practices and Nigeria’s international environmental commitments, and its passage is seen as a crucial step towards reducing the country’s carbon emissions.

Senator Kalu highlighted the economic potential of the bill, citing the global EV industry’s projected value of over $1.5 trillion by 2030. He noted that Nigeria, with its abundant mineral resources such as lithium and nickel, could benefit from local EV and battery production. This, in turn, could lead to improved public health due to reduced emissions. Other senators, including Senator Adamu Aliero, have expressed support for the bill, describing it as timely and noting that cities like Lagos and Kano would benefit from reduced carbon emissions.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Industries for further legislative review, with a report expected in four weeks. The passage of the bill is seen as a significant step towards promoting sustainable transportation in Nigeria and reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels. As the country moves forward with its transition to EVs, it is likely to have a positive impact on the environment and the economy.