Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has directed the immediate deployment of 20 luxury electric buses for public use as part of efforts to cushion the impact of the recent petrol price hike on residents.
The buses, inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu, are part of a broader transportation initiative that includes 3,000 electric bicycles, 500 electric tricycles, and 100 electric vehicles aimed at improving mobility across the state.
The rollout, which began on April 3, features a fleet comprising 17 buses with 49 seating capacity, two 37-seaters, and one 28-seater, now operating across major routes within Maiduguri metropolis and surrounding areas.
The fully air-conditioned and energy-efficient buses can travel over 400 kilometres on a single charge, complementing the existing fleet of buses and salon cars earlier procured by the Zulum administration to enhance urban transportation.
To support the initiative, the governor has also established what is described as the largest electric vehicle charging terminal in the country, with the capacity to charge up to 50 vehicles simultaneously.
As part of measures to shield residents from the effects of the global energy crisis, Governor Zulum directed the Borno Express Transport Service to maintain a subsidised fare of fifty naira per drop.
The intervention is already yielding results, with reports of reduced congestion and improved access to affordable transportation for students, civil servants, traders, and other residents.
Some commuters have praised the initiative as timely and impactful.
“This transport initiative is commendable. We are not feeling the impact of rising transportation costs, as fares remain at fifty naira per drop. We thank Governor Zulum for the gesture,” a commuter said.
The initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to promoting green energy, modernising transportation infrastructure, and providing relief to vulnerable populations.
RN
