(DDM) – Confusion has trailed the unveiling of 3,000 electric motorcycles by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Borno State, following concerns raised by residents over the continued enforcement of a state-wide ban on the use of motorcycles.
The unveiling ceremony, which was part of a federal intervention programme aimed at promoting clean energy, youth empowerment, and alternative transportation, immediately sparked mixed reactions across Maiduguri and other parts of the state.
Residents questioned how the newly introduced electric bikes would be deployed in a state where motorcycles have remained prohibited for years due to security concerns linked to insurgency and criminal activities.
Borno State has maintained a long-standing ban on commercial and private motorcycle use, particularly within Maiduguri metropolis, as part of measures to curb attacks and improve surveillance.
The ban was introduced at the height of Boko Haram insurgency, when motorcycles were frequently used for hit-and-run attacks, movement of weapons, and intelligence gathering by insurgents.
Although some restrictions have been relaxed in certain rural areas, motorcycles remain largely outlawed in major urban centres across the state.
The unveiling of the electric bikes therefore triggered uncertainty among residents, transport operators, and security watchers.
Many questioned whether the federal initiative signals a policy shift, an exemption for electric motorcycles, or a possible easing of the long-standing ban.
Some residents expressed confusion over who would be allowed to use the bikes and under what conditions.
Others asked whether the bikes were meant for government agencies, security outfits, or private commercial operators.
Transport unions in Maiduguri said they were yet to receive any official communication clarifying how the bikes would be integrated into the existing transport system.
Several commercial transport operators argued that without a clear policy adjustment by the state government, the bikes could remain unused.
Security analysts also raised concerns about implementation, noting that any reintroduction of motorcycles, electric or otherwise, must be carefully managed to avoid compromising security gains recorded in recent years.
Government officials at the unveiling described the initiative as part of President Tinubu’s broader agenda to promote renewable energy, reduce fuel dependence, and create jobs for young Nigerians.
They said the electric bikes are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and suitable for urban transportation.
According to officials, the programme is expected to support livelihoods, particularly for youths and small-scale transport operators.
However, no immediate clarification was provided on how the bikes align with Borno State’s security regulations.
The silence further fueled speculation and public debate across social media and local radio discussions.
Some residents welcomed the initiative, arguing that improved security conditions in recent years justify a review of the motorcycle ban.
They said electric bikes could ease transportation challenges, reduce transport costs, and provide employment opportunities in a state still recovering from years of conflict.
Others maintained that security should remain the top priority, warning against any premature policy changes.
They urged authorities to clearly communicate implementation plans to avoid confusion and misuse.
DDM gathered that state officials are expected to issue guidelines in the coming days to clarify the purpose, ownership structure, and operational scope of the electric bikes.
Until then, uncertainty continues to surround the project, with many residents unsure whether the bikes represent a symbolic gesture, a pilot programme, or a prelude to policy reform.
As Nigerians debate the development, the situation highlights the broader challenge of aligning federal interventions with state-specific security realities, especially in regions with a history of insurgency.
For now, the electric bikes remain unveiled, but unanswered questions continue to dominate public discourse in Borno State.