The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, passed the second reading of a bill designed to accelerate the nation’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and foster sustainable transportation.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, seeks to establish a comprehensive legal framework to guide the adoption of electric vehicles, promote local manufacturing, support environmental sustainability, and stimulate economic growth.
Presenting the lead debate, Senator Kalu explained that the bill would steer Nigeria’s gradual shift from petrol and diesel powered vehicles to cleaner, environmentally friendly alternatives.
He noted that the transport sector currently accounts for between 25 and 30 percent of the country’s total greenhouse gas emissions, with more than 12 million vehicles still dependent on fossil fuels.
Kalu emphasized that the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s international environmental commitments and global best practices, citing examples of advanced economies like Norway, which targets full electric mobility by 2030.
He also referenced South Africa and Kenya, both of which have adopted national electric vehicle policies, warning that Nigeria risks being left behind without proactive measures.
Highlighting the bill’s economic potential, Kalu pointed out that the global EV industry is projected to exceed 1.5 trillion dollars in value by 2030. He added that Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources such as lithium and nickel position the country to benefit significantly from local EV and battery production, while the transition would also reduce emissions and improve public health.
In his contribution, Senator Adamu Aliero (APC Kebbi) described the bill as timely and necessary, noting that major cities like Lagos and Kano would greatly benefit from reduced carbon emissions.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the bill as “a good innovation” and referred it to the Senate Committee on Industries for further legislative scrutiny. The committee is expected to present its report within four weeks.
