By Shettima Champions Electric Mobility
In a groundbreaking move towards a sustainable future, Vice-President Kashim Shettima has thrown his weight behind the adoption of electric mobility as a transformative solution to combat air pollution in Nigeria. This declaration comes as a pivotal moment, preceding the United Nations climate summit (COP28) in Dubai, underlining the urgency for Nigeria to commit to environmentally friendly alternatives in the transportation sector.
E-Mobility: A Cornerstone of Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan
During an inspection of the solar-powered charging stations for e-mobility situated in the State House, Abuja, Vice-President Shettima emphasized the alignment of e-mobility deployment with the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan (ETP). This strategic move not only addresses emissions and air pollution but also fortifies energy security, promising a greener and more sustainable future for all Nigerians.
Shettima stated, “E-mobility deployment aligns with the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan, addressing emissions, air pollution, and energy security concerns while ensuring a greener future for Nigerians.”
The ETP, bolstered by partnerships with influential entities such as Sustainable Energy for All and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet, underscores the critical role of the transport sector, contributing 28.4 per cent of emissions. The ETP advocates for a transition to low-emission transport technologies, marking a significant step towards a cleaner and healthier environment.
Nigeria’s Commitment to E-Mobility Transition
The Federal Government of Nigeria, under Shettima’s guidance, actively supports the transition to e-mobility. This comprehensive approach includes initiatives like boosting local assembly capacity for electric vehicles, establishing a robust charging infrastructure, and fostering private sector participation.
Shettima proudly declared, “Nigeria demonstrates its readiness to embrace cleaner and greener alternatives, and its energy transition journey is emblematic of the transformative potential of sustainable energy in shaping the future of African nations.”
Strengthening Public-Private Infrastructure Partnerships: A Key Priority
Recognizing the pivotal role of public-private infrastructure partnerships, Vice-President Shettima emphasized their significance in propelling the country’s economic growth. This perspective aligns seamlessly with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, where better infrastructure stands as the bedrock for economic prosperity.
Shettima highlighted this during the public launch of two books by renowned Nigerian lawyer, Yusuf Ali, SAN, and M. T. Adekilekun. He stated, “There is, of course, no politician in the country today who can match President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s experience in both brokering public-private partnership and understanding what must be done to bridge our infrastructure gaps.”
Tinubu’s Legacy: A Beacon of Progressive Leadership
Delving into the impact of President Bola Tinubu’s progressive leadership, Shettima drew attention to the tangible transformation witnessed in Lagos State. Tinubu’s adept skills in brokering public-private partnerships and strategic infrastructure development have left an indelible mark on the landscape, positioning Nigeria as a competitive global player.
The Vice President emphasized, “You only need to gaze into the realities of Lagos State before and after his progressive leadership as executive governor to realize his spectacular legacy, a skill set he’s again brought into play to reposition Nigeria as a competitive global player.”
In conclusion, Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s unwavering support for electric mobility and recognition of the vital role played by public-private infrastructure partnerships signal a progressive and sustainable trajectory for Nigeria. As the nation gears up for COP28, these initiatives underscore Nigeria’s commitment to combating climate change and fostering a greener, more resilient future.
