The newly sworn-in Minister of Transportation, Said Alkali, has announced plans to procure a fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) in a bid to enhance transportation efficiency and address growing concerns over fuel costs.
According to the minister, the procurement of electric vehicles would lead to a decrease in transportation costs, which are currently high due to the removal of fuel subsidies.
He said, “The Ministry of Transport must assume a leading role in improving the public transportation sector to support the numerous policies that are geared towards providing democratic dividends that are accessible to ordinary Nigerians through effective provision of public transport that is secured, affordable, and convenient across the country.
“So, I am going to ensure that the mass transit system is effective and put in place. The agenda of Mr. President is renewed hope and we will make sure that with the removal of fuel subsidy, we have an effective mass transit system and see how we can procure electric vehicles so that at least the cost of transportation with even the mass transit system is reviewed downward across the country.
“I will also ensure a sustainable collaboration with related ministries, agencies, and corporate entities to reactivate the road transport and mass transit operations in the country.”
The minister further noted that he would rehabilitate the rail transport sector targeted at ensuring secure and efficient operation.
“I will under the careful study of prevailing economic trends, undertake the provision, modernization, rehabilitation, planning, and development of the rail transport sector with efficient security services to support the realization of the primary purpose of government.
“This initiative will no doubt maximize the potentials embodied in the recent Constitutional alterations that moved rail transport services from the exclusive list to the concurrent list. It will also reduce the frequent menace on our roads characterized by accidents, kidnappings, and armed robbery,” he added.
Alkali also said that he would monitor and evaluate the performance of the agencies under the Ministry to ensure that they are meeting the government’s goals. He added that he would also create a conducive.
He made it clear that he would not put up with any form of carelessness and indiscipline.