Residents in Kano have turned to walking, cycling, and using electric bikes and commercial tricycles as alternatives for daily transport following a spike in petroleum prices to N1,150 per liter.
A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent reported on Sunday a notable reduction in cars on the roads, with an increase in pedestrians, bicycle riders, and electric bike users.
One pedestrian, Sani Isa, shared his experience, saying that tricycle fares have doubled to reflect the new pump price, significantly impacting his daily expenses. “I now spend at least N1,200 on transportation daily,” he said, adding that he has opted for a bicycle as a cheaper alternative.
Aminu Ishaq, a student at Kano Polytechnic, explained that cycling has become a cost-effective option for his family. “I don’t waste time waiting for a tricycle. I’m always in school on time and full of energy,” he noted.
Civil servant Muhammad Sadiq mentioned adjusting his commute by trekking part of the way to the Federal Secretariat before boarding a tricycle.
“I save at least N300 by breaking my movement and taking Keke from a midway point,” he said, adding that some tricycle operators have left the business due to high fuel costs.
Ali Abdullahi, another resident, stated he sold one of his cars to buy an electric bike, which he finds more economical. “I purchased an electric motorcycle for N900,000, which is easier and cheaper to maintain,” he said.
Businessman Tasi’u Murtala, who recently invested in an electric motorcycle, highlighted the cost benefits.
“I used to spend N5,000 daily on fuel. Now, with the electric bike I bought for N750,000, I save more,” he explained, noting that a fully charged battery covers up to 60 kilometers. He recharges it daily using electricity, solar power, or a generator.