Abuja:The Federal Government has reported that electric mobility initiatives in the North-East are hindering insurgents’ access to materials needed for fabricating Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Ahmadu, highlighted that the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) has acquired 3,700 electric tricycles. These tricycles are intended to alleviate transportation challenges, revitalize economic activities, and support residents displaced by insurgency.
Ahmadu explained that insurgents often utilize petroleum products and chemicals, such as fertilizers, to create their deadly devices. The introduction of electric vehicles aims to reduce the reliance on petroleum products in affected regions, thereby limiting insurgents’ ability to access bomb-making materials.
Furthermore, the project is expected to generate carbon credits and is seen as an innovative renewable energy initiative in Nigeria. In addition to the tricycles, the commission has also secured 285 electric taxis for deployment in the North-East.
The NEDC is nearing completion of charging stations across the states, with commissioning anticipated within 10 days. These stations will not only provide charging services but also create employment opportunities for youths through revenue collection and various commercial activities. The initiative is likely to encourage the adoption of electric and solar-powered transportation by offering commercially operated charging facilities.
Ahmadu also announced the development of a Central Surveillance Security System to improve security in the North-East and other vulnerable regions. The system will continuously monitor public areas such as highways, motor parks, markets, and schools to collect security information.
The information gathered will be shared with relevant security agencies, including the Nigerian Air Force, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the police, and the Department of State Services. While the commission will not directly engage in security operations, it will provide vital intelligence for agencies responsible for addressing threats.
This combined approach of deploying electric mobility and surveillance infrastructure aims to enhance security, support economic recovery, and improve the quality of life for residents in the North-East.