The inauguration of a solar-powered electric vehicle charging station at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), marks a significant stride by the Federal Government towards technological advancement in the automotive industry.
During the official unveiling on Friday, Mr Jelani Aliyu, the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), underscored the government’s commitment to progress in the automotive sector.
He emphasized the urgent need to shift from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles to combat global warming and its detrimental effects on both the environment and human health.
Aliyu, represented by Mr Olarawaju Omusanya, the Director of Infrastructures in NADDC, highlighted that the NADDC, sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, has undertaken the establishment of solar-powered electric vehicle charging stations across the nation.
The aim is to eliminate carbon emissions and associated health risks, contributing to a cleaner environment.
The pilot project involves three universities: Usman Danfodo University in Sokoto, University of Lagos (UNILAG), and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
Notably, the stations at Usman Danfodo University and UNILAG were inaugurated in 2021, with the UNN station being inaugurated on the same day as this event.
Aliyu encouraged Nigerian universities to seize this opportunity to foster research and development in the field, driving innovation.
He affirmed NADDC’s unwavering commitment to advancing technology transfer and nurturing local expertise for sustainable growth in the automotive sector.
