Buratai Calls for Affordable Green Transportation in Nigeria

Buratai Calls for Affordable Green Transportation in Nigeria

Jerry Adesewo

Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, Chairman of the Tukur Buratai Research Centre, has underscored the importance of electric vehicle (EV) adoption in Nigeria, stressing that affordability will remain the biggest challenge to its widespread acceptance. He made this statement during the exhibition and demonstration forum for BYD Electric Cars at the Gora, Nasarawa State center’s facility.

Read Also: Moses Ayom Advocates for Nigeria as West Africa’s Electric Vehicle Hub

Buratai, Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff, expressed optimism that Nigeria’s transition to electric mobility is inevitable, given the global shift toward sustainable transportation. However, he noted that for EVs to become a viable alternative, they must be made affordable and accessible to the average Nigerian.

“BYD is eager to enter the Nigerian market to make a difference. Economic realities mean that people are reviewing and adjusting their spending. However, as a nation, we have also become more conscious of the environment and the need to explore alternative ways to power our vehicles and homes,” he said.

Buratai emphasised that the collaboration between BYD Motors Nigeria and the Chinese electric vehicle giant, BYD, presents an opportunity to revolutionise Nigeria’s automobile industry. He lauded the initiative for providing a platform to explore innovative ways to integrate electric mobility solutions into Nigeria’s transportation system.

The event showcased two BYD EV models, highlighting their impressive range and cost efficiency. According to BYD’s Technical Head, Rhak Argo, the vehicles have a driving range of 510km and 610km on a full charge, which can be completed within eight hours using a home charging kit.

“If a user is on Band A electricity tariff, a full charge costs roughly N14,000, which can last an entire week,” Argo stated.

Speaking at the event, Moses Ayom, Managing Director of BYD Motors Nigeria, echoed Buratai’s optimism, stating that Nigeria has the potential to become the leading EV manufacturing and marketing hub in West Africa.

“BYD means ‘Build Your Dream,’ and that is exactly what we want to do—help Nigeria align with

the global shift toward electric vehicles. In China, 85 percent of cars are now electric, and the country is on track to go fully electric by 2030. We believe Nigeria can also position itself as a leader in this sector,” Ayom said.

Buratai reiterated the need for research and development in alternative energy solutions, for her to position as a hub for green technology, as envisioned by the BYD team.

“The world is shifting towards renewable energy, and Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind. This research centre is committed to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure that electric vehicles become affordable and accessible to the Nigerian people,” he stated.

Buratai Calls for Affordable Green Transportation in Nigeria