Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, has launched a ₦1 billion empowerment programme and distributed 500 electric tricycles to Keke Napep operators in Maiduguri metropolis and Jere Local Government Area, in a major move to improve livelihoods and modernise transportation in the state.
Governor Zulum described the initiative as part of his administration’s commitment to economic empowerment and sustainable urban transport.
He said the programme was expected to benefit about 1,000 tricycle operators, particularly the less privileged, by strengthening their earning capacity while also reducing transportation costs for residents.
The governor noted that the eco-friendly tricycles were earlier inaugurated December 20, 2025, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adding that their distribution marks another milestone in the drive for affordable and environmentally friendly transport in Borno State.
Professor Zulum further announced that the state government would subsidise 30 percent of the cost of each tricycle to make ownership easier for beneficiaries, while a special committee would supervise the payment structure and implementation process.
He urged beneficiaries to comply strictly with the operational guidelines of the scheme to guarantee its success and long-term sustainability.
In addition, Governor Zulum disclosed that 16,783 registered Keke Napep riders across 25 associations in Maiduguri and Jere would each receive ₦50,000 as financial support to cushion current economic hardship.
Chairman of the Borno State Empowerment Committee, Honourable Saina Buba, said each electric tricycle can travel about 65 kilometres on a single charge. He added that beneficiaries were selected transparently through their various associations without external interference.
The event was attended by the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno; Senator representing Borno Central, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan; the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly; members of the National and State Assemblies, as well as other top government officials.
RN