By Atlantic Reports

The Federal Government says an electric transport programme in the North-East will improve passenger movement and access to markets, while claiming that reduced dependence on petroleum products could restrict insurgents’ access to materials used in making explosives.

Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Ahmadu, outlined the initiative in an interview on Sunday in Abuja.

He said the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) had procured 3,700 electric tricycles to carry passengers and transport farm produce from remote communities to markets.

According to Ahmadu, the programme aims to ease transport difficulties, support economic recovery and improve conditions for residents displaced by insurgency.

Security Claim Requires Evidence

Ahmadu argued that replacing some petroleum-powered transport with electric vehicles would limit access to materials that insurgents could use to fabricate improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

However, the interview provided no security assessment, incident data or evidence demonstrating that the initiative had reduced access to such materials or disrupted explosive attacks.

The claimed security benefit therefore remains the minister’s assessment, distinct from the programme’s stated transport objectives.

Ahmadu also said the project would generate carbon credits. The account did not identify a certification framework, verified emissions reductions or a credit purchase agreement.

Charging Stations Near Completion

Beyond the tricycles, the minister said the commission had procured 285 electric taxis for deployment across the region.

He said construction of charging stations across the North-East states was nearing completion, with commissioning expected within ten days.

The account did not specify how many vehicles had been distributed or entered service, where the charging stations were located, or how their electricity supply would be maintained.

Ahmadu said the stations would create opportunities for young people through vehicle charging, revenue collection and related commercial activities.

For passengers, farmers and operators, the programme’s practical value will depend on reliable charging, affordable fares, maintenance support and access to the vehicles.

Surveillance System to Support Security Agencies

The minister also said the NEDC had developed a Central Surveillance Security System intended to monitor highways, motor parks, markets, schools and other public spaces around the clock.

“The main purpose of this particular project is to gather information, data, movements, and deploy them to the security agencies who have the responsibility of taking action,” he said.

Ahmadu said information would be shared with the Nigerian Air Force, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the police and the Department of State Services.

He stressed that the commission would provide intelligence rather than conduct security operations itself.

The interview did not specify whether the system was fully operational, its geographical coverage or safeguards governing access to and retention of information collected in public spaces.

Ahmadu presented both initiatives as contributions to security and economic recovery. Their outcomes will require assessment through functioning transport services, measurable benefits to communities and evidence of improved security.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.