In a significant move to boost infrastructure and social services, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially commissioned a massive fleet of 3,620 electric vehicles alongside key educational projects in Borno State. The event, held in Maiduguri, underscores a major investment in the state's recovery and development under Governor Babagana Zulum's administration.
Major Boost for Green Transport in Borno
The newly commissioned fleet represents a substantial expansion of affordable and eco-friendly transport. It is comprised of 3,000 electric bicycles, 500 tricycles (Keke NAPEP), 100 cars, and 20 large buses, each with a 42-seat capacity. This initiative builds upon an existing program that already operates 650 commercial electric vehicles within Maiduguri, offering subsidized rides to residents for just N50.
President Tinubu, while declaring the projects open, emphasized that the scheme is designed to ease daily commuting challenges and reduce economic pressures, particularly for people in rural communities. He praised the deployment of electric tricycles, buses, and charging terminals across the state as a people-focused initiative that will cut transport costs and improve convenience.
"I congratulate the governor and people of Borno State for this transformation. Government is all about people, and Professor Zulum is doing a very good job of caring for people," President Tinubu stated, commending the state government for its focus on basic needs and infrastructure recovery after years of insurgency.
Revamping Education with the 104 Mega School Initiative
Alongside the transport revolution, President Tinubu inaugurated several newly constructed schools in Maiduguri. These facilities are part of Governor Zulum's ambitious 104 Mega School Initiative, aimed at rebuilding the education sector devastated by prolonged insecurity.
The commissioned schools include:
- Mafoni Day Secondary School
- Bola Ahmed Tinubu Government Day Secondary School
- Mafoni Primary School
- An additional Mafoni Day Secondary School
Each institution is equipped with modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and administrative blocks, all designed to provide a safe and conducive learning environment for students.
Governor Zulum thanked President Tinubu for his support, noting that the projects align with the federal government's Renewed Hope agenda. He reaffirmed his administration's unwavering commitment to infrastructure development and social recovery across Borno State.
A Gathering of Political Heavyweights
The presidential visit attracted a host of prominent political figures, highlighting the event's national significance. Attendees included Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, former Zamfara governor Abdulaziz Yari, Chief Bisi Akande, and the president's son, Seyi Tinubu.
Also present were former Borno governor Ali Modu Sheriff, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, former Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, and Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari. President Tinubu concluded his visit by attending the wedding ceremony of former Governor Sheriff's son at the historic Maiduguri Central Mosque.
This landmark commissioning on December 22, 2025, marks a pivotal step in Borno's journey towards sustainable development, improved mobility, and educational revitalization, setting a precedent for other states in Nigeria.
