The Nigerian Senate has taken a major step toward clean energy transition as a bill seeking to phase out petrol-powered vehicles and promote electric mobility passed second reading on Tuesday.
Sponsored by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the proposed legislation aims to establish legal and policy frameworks to guide Nigeria’s gradual shift from fossil fuel dependence to electric vehicles (EVs).
Kalu said the bill would help reduce carbon emissions, boost local manufacturing, and position Nigeria to benefit from the global transition to green transport technologies.
He explained that the transport sector accounts for about 20 to 30 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in Nigeria.
“This bill seeks to create a comprehensive legal and institutional framework that will guide Nigeria’s gradual transition from dependence on fossil fuel-powered vehicles to clean, energy-efficient, and environmentally-friendly development,” he said.
He also revealed that the bill proposes the establishment of a National Electric Vehicle Development and Promotion Council to coordinate policy implementation across all tiers of government.
Supporting the bill, Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) described it as timely, noting that other African countries such as Kenya and South Africa are already advancing in electric mobility.
“Cities like Kano and Lagos suffer heavily from carbon emissions. If we adopt electric vehicles, it will significantly reduce emissions, improve public health, and create jobs,” Aliero said.
Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West) added that Nigeria’s large population makes it a key player in global climate action, while Senator Titus Zam (Benue North-West) emphasised the health and environmental benefits of transitioning away from petrol engines.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio hailed the initiative as a “very good innovation” and expressed optimism about its impact once implemented.
The bill was subsequently referred to the Senate Committee on Industries, which is expected to report back in four weeks.
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