Nigeria Launches E-Mobility Programme with 40 Electric Buses, Claims Largest EV Fleet in Africa

Nigeria’s Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PiCNG) has launched an E-Mobility Programme, deploying over 40 electric buses for immediate public use across selected states.

Ismael Ahmed, Executive Chairman of PiCNG, announced the launch on Friday, describing it as “a momentous milestone” in the government’s efforts to reduce transportation costs and promote clean energy alternatives.

The programme is part of a mandate from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to diversify Nigeria’s energy sources and expand access to affordable transportation options for citizens.

“This launch represents a major leap forward in our drive to strengthen Nigeria’s mobility ecosystem through competitive energy solutions,” Ahmed said in a statement. “With CNG and now E-Mobility advancing side by side, we are expanding access, reducing costs, and positioning our country for a cleaner and more efficient transport future.”

Ahmed claimed that Nigeria now holds “the largest electric vehicle fleet in Africa,” though specific fleet numbers were not provided in the statement.

The E-Mobility Programme will run alongside the government’s existing CNG initiative, which has been working to convert vehicles to compressed natural gas as a cheaper alternative to petrol.

Ahmed expressed confidence that 2025 would be “transformative for both CNG and E-Mobility,” positioning Nigeria as what he called “a global leader in energy competitiveness.”

The statement did not specify which states would receive the electric buses or provide details on the procurement cost, charging infrastructure, or operational plans for the new fleet.