The Federal Government has approved tax waivers for nearly 4,000 electric vehicles imported into Nigeria during the first half of 2026 as part of efforts to encourage cleaner transportation and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
According to government data reviewed by Reuters, the approvals represent the first batch processed under a new initiative designed to boost electric vehicle adoption through tax incentives and support for local vehicle assembly.
The move aligns with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, which aims for electric vehicles to account for 60 per cent of the country’s vehicle fleet by 2050.
To encourage adoption, the government previously exempted electric vehicles from Value Added Tax (VAT) and reduced import duties on EVs from five per cent to zero.
Despite these incentives, stakeholders say inadequate electricity supply and limited charging infrastructure remain major obstacles to widespread adoption.
Industry estimates suggest that electric vehicles currently account for less than one per cent of Nigeria’s total vehicle population, while the country has fewer than 50 public charging stations, most of which are located in Lagos and Abuja.
Experts, however, argue that Nigeria should continue investing in electric mobility alongside efforts to improve electricity generation and distribution.
Industry players maintain that expanding electric transportation could help reduce emissions, lower fuel costs and support the country’s long-term energy transition goals.
