The Kaduna State government has introduced an innovative electric vehicle (EV) initiative aimed at providing affordable and sustainable transportation options for its workers.
The program, which includes a tricycle and electric motorcycle loan scheme, was officially launched at Murtala Muhammed Square by the state’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, who represented Governor Uba Sani.
The initiative allows state employees to acquire tricycles and electric motorcycles through subsidized loans, with repayments conveniently deducted from their salaries.
This move is part of the government’s broader efforts to alleviate transportation challenges faced by civil servants while promoting environmentally friendly mobility solutions.
*Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Mobility
The project is a collaborative effort between the Kaduna State Government, the Nigerian Labour Congress, Paynacle Digital Service Limited, and Optimus Bank. It is expected to significantly improve workers’ welfare and contribute to reducing carbon emissions in the state.
To ensure the long-term sustainability of the initiative, Paynacle Digital Services Limited has announced plans to establish EV charging stations and maintenance hubs across Kaduna’s three senatorial districts. Bashir Ibrahim, Managing Director of Paynacle, emphasized the company’s commitment to the project’s viability.
“We are establishing charging stations in the three senatorial districts to support the 10,000 electric motorcycles available for workers,” he said.
Ibrahim also highlighted that the infrastructure would create over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs in areas such as motorcycle assembly, maintenance, and technical support.
Additionally, Paynacle will offer civil servants a 50 percent discount on charging costs to make the initiative more affordable.
*Commendations for Kaduna’s Pioneering Efforts
Governor Uba Sani and Deputy Governor Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe were commended for making Kaduna the first state in Nigeria to implement a large-scale electric mobility project for workers.
The initiative aligns with the state government’s broader goals of improving transportation, creating job opportunities, and promoting cleaner energy use.
Officials believe that the program will not only enhance the quality of life for workers but also set a precedent for other states to adopt similar eco-friendly transportation solutions.