The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has taken a groundbreaking step in the nation’s transition to clean energy with the launch of its first-ever Hybrid Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station in Abuja. The facility, commissioned at the ECN headquarters, marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s push for sustainable transportation and renewable energy adoption.
The Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, led the official unveiling, hailing the project as a game-changer in the country’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting green energy solutions.
The 5-kilowatt solar-powered charging station operates on both solar photovoltaic (PV) energy and the national grid, ensuring reliability and efficiency. It is equipped with a 20-kilowatt lithium battery and a cutting-edge BVA intelligent inverter, enabling fast and seamless charging. The facility is capable of fully charging an electric vehicle in just 30 minutes while supporting up to four vehicles at a time.
ECN’s Director-General, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, emphasized that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s local content policy, revealing that lithium—a key battery component—will soon be sourced locally. This, he noted, will significantly boost Nigeria’s battery production capacity and strengthen the country’s position in the global clean energy market.
The establishment of this hybrid EV charging station is a strategic move to support Nigeria’s climate change commitments, clean energy policies, and net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets. By promoting electric vehicles, the initiative aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and accelerate Nigeria’s shift toward a low-carbon economy.
Dr. Abdullahi expressed profound gratitude to Chief Nnaji for his steadfast support in advancing ECN’s initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He also acknowledged the vital role played by ECN’s technical partner, the Electric Motor Vehicle Company, Nigeria’s first EV manufacturer, headed by Mr. Audu Mustapha.
Welcoming dignitaries to the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Abdullahi reaffirmed ECN’s unwavering commitment to pioneering innovative energy solutions that will power Nigeria’s sustainable future. He described the project as a bold leap towards cleaner, more efficient energy systems that will drive economic growth and environmental conservation.
With Nigeria now home to its first hybrid EV charging station, experts believe this milestone will encourage more investments in renewable energy infrastructure, laying the foundation for a nationwide EV revolution.