The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has unveiled an ambitious Electric Vehicle Bus Competition aimed at fostering innovation within Nigeria’s academic institutions. The initiative, launched on Thursday at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Design Studio, brings together 12 universities from across the country to design and produce eight-seater electric campus shuttle buses.
Speaking at the event, NADDC Director-General, Mr. Joseph Osanipin, emphasized the competition’s goal of driving research, creativity, and the use of locally sourced materials in vehicle production. “We are challenging universities to realize that we can achieve what others are doing in China and America,” he said. He also highlighted the involvement of key stakeholders in Nigeria’s automotive industry, including assemblers and manufacturers, who will serve as jury members for the competition.
Participating Universities and Structure
The first phase of the competition features 12 universities representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. These include:
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto
Modibbo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH), Yola
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT)
University of Benin (UNIBEN)
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
University of Abuja
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
After the initial design phase, participating teams will collaborate with private sector partners and vehicle manufacturers to bring their concepts to life.
Mr. Abdullahi Ayinde, NADDC’s Director of Vehicle Electrification, noted that the competition would not only expose students to global standards but also teach them essential project management skills. He encouraged participants to explore creative solutions for sustainable transportation in Nigeria while leveraging affordable local components.
The Dean of UNILAG’s Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Oluropo Adeosun, expressed optimism about the project’s potential to drive national progress. Reflecting on a previous success story where UNILAG built buses despite funding challenges, he said this initiative highlights the untapped potential within Nigerian academia.
NADDC plans to expand the program in future phases to include polytechnics and technical colleges. Mr. Osanipin stressed that beyond engineers and technologists, other professionals such as craftsmen and fabricators would play vital roles in the vehicle manufacturing process.
UNILAG Vice-Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Bola Oboh, commended NADDC for involving both first-generation and newer universities. She also explained the environmental benefits of electric vehicles and affirmed UNILAG’s commitment to maintaining its green campus status.
This groundbreaking initiative is expected to not only showcase Nigeria’s engineering talent but also contribute significantly to sustainable transportation solutions for the country.
