Nigeria’s EV journey: High costs, low adoption, and a vision for the future

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining traction globally, promising reduced emissions and cleaner air. But in Nigeria, EV adoption faces steep challenges, including high prices, limited infrastructure, and unreliable power supply.

Despite these hurdles, the market is showing signs of growth. Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP), launched in 2022, aims for a full transition to EVs by 2060. Lagos State has set an even more ambitious target of 2050. “Our goal is to create a sustainable environment while reducing reliance on fossil fuels,” said a Lagos State transport official.

High Costs Limit Access

EV prices in Nigeria range from N12 million to N150 million, making them unaffordable for many. For example, EMVC’s Adoja M2, an electric car with a 250-kilometer range, starts at N12 million. Innoson Motors, Nigeria’s first indigenous carmaker, offers models starting at N18 million, with its flagship IVM EX02 priced at N38.4 million.

“High exchange rates and import costs make EVs expensive,” said Cornel Osigwe, Innoson’s Director of Communication.

Meanwhile, JET Motor Company’s luxury electric buses, with cutting-edge technology, sell for **N145 million to N150 million. The company’s COO, Sanjay Rupani, attributed the prices to exchange rate volatility.

Infrastructure Gaps Stifle Growth

Nigeria’s EV infrastructure still needs development. There are just a handful of public charging stations, including hubs in Lagos, Abuja, and Sokoto. By comparison, Europe added over 200,000 public charging points in 2024 alone, bringing its total to 630,000, according to the European Alternative Fuels Observatory.

“Without accessible charging stations, even those who can afford EVs hesitate to make the switch,” said a spokesperson for SAGLEV, a company assembling EVs in Nigeria.

Private Sector Driving Change

Private companies are stepping up. EMVC, based in Abuja, has introduced electric cars, motorcycles, and tricycles with solar-powered options. Innoson and JET Motors are manufacturing locally, reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imports.

SAGLEV recently opened an assembly plant in Ikorodu, Lagos, producing models like the Voyah Free with a range of up to 1,201 kilometers. The company emphasizes affordability and sustainability.

A Promising Future

Despite lagging behind South Africa, Kenya, and Morocco in EV adoption, Nigeria’s market has potential. President Bola Tinubu pledged in 2023 to make Nigeria a leader in Africa’s EV transition.

Lagos State’s transport policy includes plans for a network of charging stations within three years. “We’re committed to making EVs a reality for all Nigerians,” said the state’s transport commissioner.

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