Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) has warned that Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind in the global shift to clean mobility, calling for urgent collaboration to fast-track electric vehicle adoption.
Its Executive Secretary, Clement Isong, gave the warning during an online webinar titled “Accelerating Electric Mobility Adoption in Nigeria by Unlocking Downstream Potential” on Monday.
Isong said that the association had already taken practical steps by installing 12 EV charging and battery-swapping stations alongside five after-sales facilities across the country.
“Collaboration among regulators, investors, and private sector stakeholders is critical to building a viable EV ecosystem in Nigeria. MEMAN remains committed to fostering dialogue and innovation in the downstream sector,” Isong said.
He said that transportation accounted for 28 per cent of Nigeria’s greenhouse gas emissions, and rising fuel prices are burdening households and businesses.
Dr Mukaila Oseni, Director of Operations, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), cited the International Energy Agency’s forecast that the number of EVs worldwide will rise to 145 million by 2030.
“Nigeria must diversify its energy mix, lower transportation costs in the long run, and reduce carbon emissions. EV adoption is no longer optional. It is essential,” Oseni said.
He, however, admitted that challenges remain: high upfront vehicle costs, weak charging infrastructure, unreliable grid power, and low consumer awareness.
Oseni added that NMDPRA had been reviewing regulatory policies to encourage private investment, technology adoption, and innovative business models.
He further urged stakeholders to leverage the nation’s vast fuel retail network as future charging hubs, while also considering interim options such as compressed natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas as cleaner alternatives.
The webinar, hosted by MEMAN’s Competency Centre, highlighted financing models, local vehicle assembly, and consumer education as critical tools to make EVs accessible and affordable.
With the world moving rapidly towards electrified transport, participants agreed on one point: Nigeria must act decisively to embed EVs in its energy transition strategy or risk being left behind.
