News
Zulum Rolls Out N1bn Transport Support, Distributes 500 Electric Tricycles to Borno Riders
Zulum Rolls Out N1bn Transport Support, Distributes 500 Electric Tricycles to Borno Riders
By: Michael Mike
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has unveiled a sweeping transport intervention package valued at ₦1 billion, alongside the distribution of 500 electric tricycles to operators across Maiduguri metropolis and Jere Local Government Area.
The initiative, which targets 1,000 Keke NAPEP riders, is part of the state government’s broader strategy to modernize urban mobility, reduce operating costs, and cushion the economic strain on transporting workers and residents.
The eco-friendly tricycles were originally inaugurated on December 20, 2025, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking a significant collaboration between federal and state authorities to promote sustainable transport solutions.
Speaking at the launchiNg held at the Government House in Maiduguri, Zulum described the programme as a deliberate effort to empower vulnerable operators while advancing environmental sustainability.
“This initiative is not just about distributing tricycles; it is about restoring dignity, improving livelihoods, and creating a more efficient and affordable transportation system for our people,” the governor said.
He emphasized that the electric tricycles, procured months earlier, are designed to lower operational costs and reduce dependence on fuel, while contributing to a cleaner urban environment.
To ensure accessibility, the state government has committed to subsidizing 30 percent of the cost of each tricycle, with a structured repayment plan to be managed by a designated committee.
“The subsidy is intended to ease the financial burden on beneficiaries and guarantee that the programme remains inclusive and impactful,” Zulum added, stressing the need for strict adherence to operational guidelines to sustain the initiative.
Beyond the tricycle distribution, the governor announced a direct financial intervention targeting 16,783 registered riders drawn from 25 transport associations. Each beneficiary is to receive ₦50,000, as part of measures to mitigate the impact of prevailing economic challenges.
According to Zulum, the ₦1 billion support package underscores his administration’s commitment to strengthening the informal transport sector, which remains a critical component of urban mobility and job creation in the state.
Chairman of the Borno State Empowerment Committee, Hon. Saina Buba, disclosed that each electric tricycle has a range of up to 65 kilometers per charge, making them both efficient and cost-effective for daily operations.
He noted that beneficiaries were transparently selected through their respective associations, without political interference, to ensure fairness and credibility in the process.
The event drew top government functionaries and political leaders, including members of the National Assembly and the Borno State House of Assembly, underscoring the significance of the intervention in the state’s economic recovery and development agenda.
Observers say the programme could serve as a model for other states seeking to integrate clean energy solutions into public transportation while addressing unemployment and rising living costs.
Zulum Rolls Out N1bn Transport Support, Distributes 500 Electric Tricycles to Borno Riders
Troops Rescue Kidnap Victim in Edo During Search Operation
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation MESA, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police, local vigilantes and hunters, have rescued a kidnapped civilian in Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Security sources said the troops, deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Udomi, responded to credible intelligence at about 9:00 a.m. on April 21 regarding the abduction of a civilian in the Amendokhian general area.
The troops immediately launched a search-and-rescue operation and successfully secured the release of the victim.
The victim has since been reunited with family members, while efforts are ongoing to track down and apprehend the perpetrators.
Troops Rescue Kidnap Victim in Edo During Search Operation
Troops Rescue Kidnap Victim in Benue
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 1, Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have rescued a kidnapped victim following a swift response to a suspected terrorist attack in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
Security sources disclosed that the troops, deployed at Abaji, acted on a report at about 1:45 p.m. on April 21 regarding an attack at Tumataa community.
On arrival, the troops engaged the suspected terrorists in a gun duel, forcing them to abandon the victim and flee the scene.
The victim was successfully rescued and has since been reunited with family members.
The sources added that troops are sustaining operations in the area to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further attacks.
Troops Rescue Kidnap Victim in Benue
Troops Arrest Illegal Arms Manufacturers, Recover Weapons in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops have arrested two suspected illegal arms manufacturers during a raid on a criminal hideout in Langtang North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources disclosed that the operation was carried out at about 5:00 p.m. on April 22 at Gwandanu Village, following credible intelligence on illicit arms production in the area.
According to the sources, the suspects were apprehended while actively engaged in the fabrication of weapons.
Items recovered during the operation include two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle, two generating sets, a welding machine, a drilling machine, a hand filer and a toolbox, among other items.
The suspects are currently in military custody pending further investigation.
The sources added that troops have intensified efforts to mop up illegally fabricated arms in the general area as part of ongoing operations to curb criminal activities and enhance security in the state.
Troops Arrest Illegal Arms Manufacturers, Recover Weapons in Plateau
Troops Repel Multiple Terrorist Attacks, Rescue 15 Kidnap Victims in Borno
Troops Rescue Kidnap Victim in Edo During Search Operation
Troops Rescue Kidnap Victim in Benue
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