In a significant move towards sustainable urban mobility, two companies, Alpha and Roadrunner (SBC 24), have officially launched a new fleet of electric passenger and cargo tricycles into the Nigerian market. The launch event, held on 20 December 2025, featured road-shows in the bustling areas of Gwarimpa and Nyanya within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
A Strategic Partnership for a Cleaner Future
The event drew key industry stakeholders, notably Mr. Dapo Adesina, President of the Electric Promoters Association of Nigeria (EMPAN) and Vice Chairman of the National Technical Committee on E-Mobility Standards. In a joint statement, the firms highlighted the dual purpose of the initiative: to combat air pollution from traditional petrol engines and to enhance the economic viability of logistics and transport operators.
Central to their strategy is an innovative financing solution designed to break down the primary barrier to adoption: high upfront cost. Roadrunner is offering asset financing to operators on a lease-to-own basis. This model provides a convenient and sustainable pathway to full ownership, making electric vehicle technology accessible to a broader segment of the market.
Economic and Environmental Impact
Speaking at the launch, Engineer Dapo Adesina framed the initiative as a critical investment in the nation's future. "This is more than just a new vehicle launch; it is an investment in Nigeria’s future health and wealth," he stated. "By transitioning to electric, we are working to reduce the negative impact of vehicle emissions that plague our cities, while also providing a tangible economic lifeline to the thousands of operators who rely on this sector."
Ibrahim Haruna, Country Manager at Alpha, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. "Alpha is thrilled to partner with Roadrunner, a company that shares our vision for a sustainable Nigeria," he said. "Our collaboration is designed to tackle the two biggest obstacles to electric vehicle adoption: affordability and accessibility." He emphasized that leveraging Roadrunner's expertise in the last-mile market and its financing model would accelerate the deployment of these clean vehicles.
Democratizing Clean Technology for Operators
Clement David, Chief Operating Officer of Roadrunner, outlined the company's core vision: to democratize access to clean technology. He pointed out the direct economic benefit for drivers. "The volatile cost of petrol has severely eroded the income of our commercial drivers. By drastically reducing their operational cost, our electric tricycles allow operators to earn significantly more, which directly translates into an improved standard of living for them and their families," David explained.
The introduction of these electric tricycles presents a practical and sustainable alternative to the ubiquitous petrol-powered models, commonly known as 'Keke NAPEP'. The initiative is poised to:
- Reduce urban air pollution and carbon emissions.
- Lower daily operating costs for transport operators.
- Stimulate growth in the local green technology ecosystem.
- Provide a scalable model for electric vehicle adoption across other Nigerian cities.
This launch marks a concrete step in Nigeria's evolving electric mobility landscape, demonstrating how strategic partnerships and innovative financing can turn the aspiration for green transport into an everyday reality for millions.
