Yesterday, October 10, 2024, the Kwara State Government, in collaboration with EV Mass Transit Solutions, launched an Electric Tricycle Acquisition Scheme to provide electric-powered tricycles on an installment basis to members of the Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN).
The event, held at the Banquet Hall in Ilorin, marks a significant step towards modernizing the state’s transportation sector and reducing the burden on citizens who have been affected by rising transport fares. The electric tricycles, capable of carrying up to seven passengers, are equipped with swappable batteries that can be recharged at designated charging stations provided by EV Mass Transit. This ensures continuous operations and reduces downtime for drivers, offering greater flexibility and convenience.
Speaking at the stakeholders’ meeting, the Director-General of EV Mass Transit Solutions, James Oludele Clinton, announced that the scheme will begin with a pilot phase, introducing 500 electric tricycles in Ilorin, with plans to expand the initiative to 5,000 units across the state. “This project is a strategic move to modernize our public transport system, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly. We believe this will significantly improve the livelihood of TOAN members while contributing to the state’s economic development,” Clinton stated.
In his remarks, His Excellency, the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Hon. Yusuf Damilola, emphasized the importance of the initiative. He described the scheme as a welcome development that will not only enhance the state’s transportation system but also address environmental concerns by reducing carbon emissions. “This aligns with our broader goal of creating a cleaner, greener Kwara,” he added.
Alhaji Saliu Gidado, the State Chairman of TOAN Kwara State Chapter, also expressed his gratitude to the Kwara State Government for their continuous support and recognition of TOAN as a reliable partner in the transport sector. He highlighted the administration’s past contributions, recalling how the government, during its first tenure, approved TOAN as the exclusive tricycle transport service provider in the state and facilitated the acquisition of 100 tricycles for its members in 2019.
Reflecting on the current scheme, Alhaji Gidado assured all stakeholders of TOAN’s commitment to ensuring the project’s success. “We have completed previous payments without defaulting, and I want to reassure all parties that they have no reason to fear regarding the recovery of investments in this new initiative. We possess the experience needed to manage this business effectively,” he asserted.
He further urged the beneficiaries of the electric tricycles to adhere strictly to the terms of the acquisition, emphasizing that “what we intend to do here is business, not a Christmas cake or Ileya Ram gift.” Alhaji Gidado also assured potential beneficiaries that delays would be minimized to ensure smooth operations.
The introduction of these electric tricycles is expected to lead to a reduction in transport fares, a relief to residents burdened by rising fuel costs. Alhaji Gidado conveyed optimism about the positive impact on the public, stating, “There is no way the transport fare will not crash, as the perpetual increase in fuel pump prices has been a major factor in high transport costs. With this innovation, we will all have cause to glorify God Almighty.”