The Kaduna State Government has launched an electric vehicle (EV) loan initiative aimed at providing affordable and sustainable transportation for civil servants. The program, which offers subsidized loans for electric motorcycles and tricycles, was inaugurated on Friday by Governor Uba Sani at Murtala Square, Kaduna. Under the scheme, state employees will have access to salary-deductible loans to acquire eco-friendly vehicles, easing transportation difficulties while promoting sustainable mobility. Speaking at the event, Governor Sani, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, emphasized the administration’s commitment to enhancing workers’ welfare. “This initiative reflects our dedication to improving the lives of civil servants. Transportation costs can be a major burden, and by providing affordable electric motorcycles and tricycles, we are helping our workforce arrive at work on time and perform their duties effectively,” he stated. As part of the program, the state government has distributed 7,000 motorcycles, 4,000 of which are electric, to public sector employees. The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Paynacle Digital Services Limited, and Optimus Bank. Through this partnership, workers can repay the cost of the vehicles gradually via salary deductions. Infrastructure and Job Creation To support the growing adoption of electric vehicles, Paynacle Digital Services Limited has announced plans to establish EV charging stations and maintenance hubs across Kaduna’s three senatorial districts. “We are committed to making this project sustainable by setting up charging infrastructure throughout the state. Additionally, 10,000 electric motorcycles will be made available to workers, and we will offer a 50% discount on charging costs to reduce expenses for civil servants,” said Bashir Ibrahim, Managing Director of Paynacle Digital Services Limited. He added that the initiative would generate over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs in motorcycle assembly, maintenance, and technical support. In a show of support, Kaduna State Chairman of the NLC, Ayuba Magaji, applauded Governor Sani for prioritizing workers’ well-being. Additionally, Hassan Ibrahim, Acting State Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), revealed that the union had procured 1,000 electric tricycles for its members, which would be paid off over two years. Civil servants in Kaduna have welcomed the initiative, with beneficiaries like Mrs. Sarah Musa, a Ministry of Education staff member, expressing gratitude for the government’s efforts to improve transportation accessibility. The electric vehicle project is expected to revolutionize mobility in Kaduna, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support Nigeria’s push toward clean energy solutions.
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