In a historic move towards cleaner energy and sustainable transportation, Nigeria officially launched its first Hybrid Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station in the nation’s capital, Abuja, on Thursday, March 20, 2025. The new facility, which promises to transform the country’s energy landscape, was commissioned by the Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, alongside key government figures, including the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji.
The commissioning event marked a significant step in Nigeria’s transition to green energy and its commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The charging station, a 5.5-kilowatt solar-powered facility, has the capacity to charge four electric vehicles (EVs) simultaneously. It can also switch between using the national power grid and solar power, making it both environmentally friendly and adaptable to various energy conditions.
Dr. Abdullahi, in his address during the event, commended the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its backing of this ground-breaking project. He explained that the station was not just a symbol of progress but an example of the country’s commitment to the future of clean energy. According to Dr. Abdullahi, the facility’s hybrid design – which includes a 10-kilowatt lithium battery and an 8kVA intelligent inverter – ensures rapid charging capabilities and long-term maintainability. A typical electric vehicle can be fully charged within 30 minutes, and the station is designed to cater to both standard and generic electric vehicles.
“This project is aligned with President Tinubu’s climate change agenda and Nigeria’s clean energy policy. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support a low-carbon economy, and lessen our dependence on fossil fuels in the transportation sector,” Dr. Abdullahi said.
The Director General also highlighted the importance of local content development in this initiative, noting that lithium – a key material used in the production of batteries – would soon be available as a raw material for the manufacturing of batteries in Nigeria. This move is expected to boost the local manufacturing industry and contribute to economic growth.
In a show of strong governmental support, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, praised the efforts of the ECN and its partners in delivering this important project. Speaking at the event, Nnaji emphasized the significance of the charging station as a vital step in Nigeria’s transition to sustainable energy solutions.
He described the commissioning as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels while enhancing energy security and promoting green innovations. “This project is more than just an infrastructure milestone; it is a testament to our nation’s resolve to embrace technological advancement in energy and transportation,” Nnaji said.
The Minister further noted that the collaboration between the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and the Electric Motor Vehicle Company (EMVC), Nigeria’s first electric vehicle company, was a model for advancing green technology. “Through strategic partnerships like this, we are laying the foundation for a more sustainable, eco-friendly future,” he added.
Nnaji also took the opportunity to reiterate the federal government’s commitment to policies that encourage technological advancements, attract investments, and create jobs in the green economy. He urged stakeholders in the energy and transport sectors to collaborate in expanding electric vehicle infrastructure across Nigeria, making EVs more accessible to the average Nigerian.
The project’s technical partner, the Electric Motor Vehicle Company (EMVC), has been instrumental in bringing the vision to life. Founded by Mr. Audu Mustapha, EMVC is Nigeria’s first electric vehicle manufacturing company. Its partnership with ECN reflects the increasing interest and investment in Nigeria’s electric mobility sector.
In his speech, Dr. Abdullahi acknowledged EMVC’s pivotal role in the success of the project. He expressed gratitude for their commitment to innovation and their contribution to Nigeria’s green energy transformation. “EMVC’s dedication to providing electric mobility solutions has been invaluable, and their partnership with the ECN has helped to make this vision a reality,” Dr. Abdullahi said.
The commissioning of the Hybrid Electric Vehicle Charging Station represents more than just a technological achievement for Nigeria; it signifies the country’s commitment to addressing the pressing issues of climate change, energy security, and sustainable development. By embracing electric mobility and renewable energy sources like solar power, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in the African transition to a green economy.
The facility’s design, which incorporates the use of both solar power and the national grid, is an essential part of Nigeria’s strategy to diversify its energy mix and reduce its carbon footprint. As the nation works towards meeting its climate targets and moving away from fossil fuels, such initiatives are expected to play a critical role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s transportation sector.
While the Abuja charging station is the first of its kind, there are plans to replicate similar facilities across the country, expanding access to clean energy and promoting electric vehicles in both urban and rural areas. The Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology has already committed to supporting these efforts by implementing policies that encourage the growth of the electric vehicle market and the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure.
