In a bold step toward tackling unemployment and promoting environmental sustainability, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has distributed 100 electric vehicles, comprising 50 electric cars and 50 electric tricycles, to indigent youths across the state.

The initiative, launched on Thursday in Lafia, is designed to empower young people to run transport businesses, thereby reducing joblessness while embracing clean energy solutions.

Governor Sule explained that the vehicles run on electricity, not petrol or gas, and assured that charging stations are being built to support their operations. A charging centre has already been established at the new state secretariat in Lafia, with plans to extend similar facilities to Akwanga and Keffi, and later, other local government areas.

The governor also noted that the first set of beneficiaries will operate in Lafia, Akwanga, and Keffi, serving both civil servants and students in tertiary institutions such as the Federal University of Lafia, College of Education Akwanga, and the State University in Keffi.

“All vehicles are air-conditioned and can run for a full day after charging,” Sule said, expressing optimism that the scheme will provide sustainable livelihoods and make transportation more affordable.

Traditional leaders, including the Emir of Lafia, Justice Muhammad Sidi-Bage (Rtd.), applauded the initiative. He encouraged the beneficiaries to use the vehicles responsibly to ease transportation challenges for residents while pledging royal fathers’ continued support for government policies.

This effort highlights the growing role of renewable energy and youth empowerment in shaping Nigeria’s future, providing not just jobs but also environmentally friendly solutions to everyday challenges.