During the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Dubai, Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, emphasised the pressing importance of global collaboration in tackling the issues caused by climate change. Adding to this commitment, the federal government confirmed its plans to establish the largest fleet of electric mass transit vehicles in Africa, placing Nigeria at the forefront of sustainable transportation on the continent. This ambitious step could usher a positive change towards a greener future.
Tuggar emphasised Nigeria’s determination to establish Africa’s most extensive electric mass transit fleet, with plans to amplify its electric bus count from 100 to 1,000. He proudly declared Nigerian leadership in combating climate change on the African continent as they set forth audacious targets. According to a statement by Alkasim Abdulkadir, the media aide of the minister, Nigeria adherence to its obligations has been affirmed by the enactment of a Climate Change Act and the establishment of a National Council on Climate Change (NCCC).
The country commenced its action against climate change.
Also, Nigeria has boldly established visionary objectives, instilling a tremendous sense of pride as it swiftly translates its promises into concrete actions to combat climate change. This initiative not only decreases emissions but also highlights my administration’s unwavering dedication to propelling the green project industry, fostering job opportunities, and driving industrial growth in vital sectors. The minister emphasised the escalating climate crisis and highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility. Nigeria’s dedication to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 was reiterated, along with reaffirming their commitment to their nationally determined contributions.
In urging the international community, he appealed for a unity that surpasses political divisions, emphasising the need for joint efforts in addressing pressing climate issues. Moreover, he stressed the significance of developed nations providing financial aid to support developing countries in their shift towards eco-friendly economies. The minister emphasised the significance of adhering to the principles highlighted in the Paris Agreement, stressing the necessity for every country to demonstrate their dedication to ambitious and transparent climate objectives.
Oando will provide Nigeria with 12,000 electric buses.
A separate report revealed that Oando Clean Energy Limited (OCEL), an energy company based in Nigeria, recently unveiled a groundbreaking collaboration with Yutong, a renowned bus manufacturer from China. The ambitious venture aims to revolutionise transportation in Nigeria by introducing a fleet of 12,000 electric buses onto the roads within the next seven years. Furthermore, OCEL and Yutong are committed to establishing the necessary infrastructure to support this eco-friendly initiative. The statement declares that the introduction of electric buses and charging stations, marking the beginning of a pilot phase, has taken place in Lagos State.
Following this, Lagos announced that it has joined other international cities in adopting electric vehicles, as Oando Clean Energy Limited and Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) partnered up to introduce their Electric-Mass Transit buses. This initiative aims to revolutionise the public transportation system in the state by fostering the creation and implementation of a sustainable, carbon-neutral mobility infrastructure in Lagos. The introduction of electric buses commenced by initiating a three-month Proof-Of-Concept (PoC) phase, with the objective of determining the potential of electric vehicles for large-scale transportation in Lagos State.
Job opportunities for over 30,000 individuals will be generated.
Afterwards, a Pilot phase will commence, entailing a remarkable fleet and an expansion of bus routes. This initiative is set to generate job opportunities for over 30,000 individuals in Nigeria. To ensure uninterrupted operations, the company has strategically established charging stations at every bus depot, guaranteeing that the buses are fully charged on a daily basis. Moreover, their partners have played an integral role in the comprehensive training of all drivers to ensure they possess the necessary expertise in utilising and upkeeping these buses.
Related Link
UNFCCC: Website
