INFRASTRUCTURE READINESS AND THE ADOPTION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The global shift towards sustainable mobility has placed electric vehicles (EVs) at the forefront of alternative transportation solutions. However, in Nigeria, adoption remains slow despite rising awareness of environmental and economic benefits. This study examined the infrastructural, economic, policy, and technical factors influencing electric vehicle adoption in Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, with data collected from 372 respondents and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, and chi-square tests. Findings revealed that electric vehicle adoption in Nigeria is hindered by inadequate charging infrastructure, unreliable electricity supply, and high purchase and maintenance costs. In addition, the absence of clear government policies and weak incentive frameworks further discourage investment and consumer interest. Technical capacity and expertise were also found to be insufficient, with limited training opportunities for mechanics and engineers to support electric vehicle maintenance. Collectively, these findings highlight that Nigeria faces multidimensional barriers to electric vehicle adoption, particularly when compared with countries where strong policies and infrastructure have driven rapid uptake. The study concludes that addressing infrastructural deficits, strengthening power supply, providing financial incentives, enacting supportive policies, and building local technical capacity are critical to promoting electric vehicle adoption in Nigeria.