FIC Report (Nasarawa State) – In a deliberate effort to tackle unemployment, curb youth restiveness, and improve the welfare of young people in Nasarawa State, Governor Abdullahi Sule on Thursday distributed electric cars and tricycles to 100 indigent youths in Lafia.
The gesture comprised 50 electric cars and 50 electric tricycles, aimed at boosting the economic potential of the beneficiaries, stabilizing their income base, and enhancing their sustainability within the state.
Speaking during the distribution ceremony in Lafia, Governor Sule explained that the initiative was designed to empower youths to run their businesses and reduce the unemployment rate. He noted that the vehicles and tricycles are electrically powered, not dependent on petrol or diesel.
“As a state, we have already built a charging centre for the vehicles and tricycles at the new state secretariat in Lafia. We are also constructing additional charging centres in Akwanga and Keffi to serve the Nasarawa North and West Senatorial Districts respectively,” the governor announced.
He further assured that more charging centres would be built across other local government areas in due course. For a start, the electric cars and tricycles will operate within Lafia, Akwanga, and Keffi, conveying civil servants to their workplaces as part of efforts to cushion the current economic hardship.
Governor Sule also disclosed that the vehicles would serve tertiary institutions across the state, including those in Lafia, Akwanga, and Keffi.
Highlighting their efficiency, he explained that the air-conditioned electric cars and tricycles, once fully charged, can operate for the whole day. He expressed optimism that the initiative would not only provide a reliable source of livelihood for the youths but also contribute to environmental sustainability.
In his remarks, the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Traditional Council, retired Justice Sidi Bage, commended the governor’s efforts to alleviate the suffering of the people.
He urged the beneficiaries to use the vehicles responsibly to help reduce the high cost of transportation in the state, while assuring that traditional rulers would continue to support government policies and development programmes.
Justice Bage also reiterated that the royal fathers would remain nonpartisan, offering prayers and blessings for all political candidates regardless of party affiliation.
Signed
ARI, LIMAN AMINU.
HEAD OF CENTRE,
FEDERAL INFORMATION CENTRE, LAFIA.
