Maryam Aminu
In a bold push to tackle youth unemployment and accelerate Nigeria’s transition to clean energy, the Federal Government has taken delivery of upgraded solar-powered electric tricycles a move described as both an economic lifeline and a green innovation breakthrough for young Nigerians.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, is the product of a strategic collaboration between House of Destiny and the National Commercial Tricycles and Motorcycles Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria. The partnership is designed to create sustainable income opportunities while promoting renewable energy solutions across the country.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro
Receiving the delegation in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, described the collaboration as a transformative intervention that will ease economic hardship among vulnerable youths.
She likened the partnership to “the three wheels of a tricycle each essential, balanced, and mutually reinforcing in driving youth empowerment forward,” stressing that government and private stakeholders must work in sync to unlock opportunities for Nigeria’s growing youth population.
According to her, empowering young Nigerians through entrepreneurship and skills development is not just a policy direction but a national imperative.
“Empowering young Nigerians is not optional; it is a national necessity,” she stated, noting that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which places youth empowerment at the heart of national development.
Dr. Keshinro emphasized that the solar-powered tricycles represent more than mobility solutions.
“These tricycles are not merely vehicles but instruments of employment, dignity, and self-reliance,” she said. “Beneficiaries are encouraged to innovate, refine existing products, and develop solutions suited to local realities particularly solar-powered technologies that support Nigeria’s transition to a green economy.”
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of House of Destiny, Dr. Israel Olajumoke, described the project as a practical demonstration of how collaboration between government and civil society can generate meaningful employment while stimulating innovation.
He added that the initiative deliberately promotes inclusivity, encouraging women to participate in sectors traditionally dominated by men.
“Empowering women and youth strengthens communities and promotes equitable access to opportunities,” he noted, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to expanding the programme nationwide through strategic partnerships.
Also speaking, the President of NATOMORAS, Alhaji Usman Buba Gwoza, represented by the Association’s Secretary, Madonna Corosi, revealed that 20 upgraded solar-powered tricycles were recently distributed in Yobe State. With that rollout, the total number of units deployed across several states has now reached 74.
She explained that beyond job creation, the initiative is advancing renewable energy adoption and broadening economic access for young Nigerians in underserved communities.
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