Electrifying Nigeria's Transport Sector: Prospects, Barriers, and Implications for Carbon Emission Reduction

Abstract

The transport sector is a major contributor to Nigeria's carbon emissions and urban air pollution, driven by an almost total reliance on fossil fuel vehicles. This study assesses the prospects, barriers, and implications of electrifying Nigeria's transport sector as a strategy for carbon emission reduction. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative data from a survey of 147 staff of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) with qualitative insights. Findings reveal a strong consensus (72.79%) that electric vehicle (EV) adoption can significantly reduce transport emissions, with statistical analysis confirming that electrification has a measurable impact on CO₂ reduction. However, critical barriers persist, including an unreliable power grid (with 63.27% of respondents doubting its readiness for widespread EV charging), high import duties on EVs (identified by 72.11% as a major market barrier), and inadequate charging infrastructure. The study concludes that while transport electrification presents a viable pathway for Nigeria to meet its climate goals and achieve co-benefits like improved public health and energy security, its success hinges on targeted policy interventions. Key recommendations include enacting fiscal incentives like import duty waivers, developing a national electric mobility policy, and investing in renewable-energy-powered charging infrastructure to enable a sustainable transition.