The Borno State Government has distributed subsidised electric tricycles to 500 vulnerable persons as part of efforts to alleviate poverty and enhance economic empowerment across the state.
Speaking during the distribution ceremony on Thursday in Maiduguri, Gov. Babagana Zulum said the initiative was designed to support vulnerable residents, particularly youths and commercial riders, by providing them with a sustainable means of livelihood.
Zulum said the tricycles, popularly known as “Keke Napep,” were procured months ago, while the current phase marks their formal distribution to verified beneficiaries.
According to him, the government has also introduced a subsidy arrangement to make the tricycles affordable, with flexible payment terms to be managed by the partnering company.
“The essence of this programme is to empower our people economically and reduce the cost of transportation within the metropolis.
“These tricycles will not only provide jobs for the beneficiaries but will also contribute to easing movement and improving access to essential services,” he said.
The governor added that beneficiaries will be issued operational licences and required to adhere to specific guidelines provided by the implementing company to ensure proper usage and sustainability of the initiative.
Zulum said a total of 16,783 commercial riders have been registered and verified across various associations within the Maiduguri metropolitan and Jere council areas.
He further said that, in addition to the tricycles, each verified rider will receive financial support of N50,000 as a grant to cushion the effects of economic challenges and boost their operations.
He said the total amount approved for the 16,783 riders as grants is N1 billion.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to implementing policies and programmes aimed at improving the welfare of residents and supporting small-scale enterprises.
Some of the beneficiaries, however, expressed appreciation to the state government, describing the intervention as timely and impactful in addressing unemployment and hardship.
They pledged to utilise the tricycles responsibly and comply with the operational guidelines to maximise the benefits of the initiative.
He added that once the cost is fully repaid by the riders, they will have the opportunity to own the tricycles at a subsidised rate.
