At the University of Lagos, electric buses are reshaping student transport by offering a more affordable and eco-friendly way to move across campus.
Since Chart Eco Global Services and Ogata Global Resources launched ten electric buses in December 2024, the campus has seen a big shift from traditional cabs to these silent, zero-emission shuttles that cut fares by half. Students now pay just ₦100 to ride a bus that stops closer to their faculties, eliminating the long lines of waiting students seen before. The fleet has already doubled to twenty buses, with plans to add ten more to reduce queues further.
The high cost of fuel, especially after subsidy removals raised petrol prices, pushed campus cab fares up to ₦200, forcing many students to walk or delay travel. The electric buses provide relief by offering lower fares and a more comfortable ride compared to cramped cabs. However, some students noted a frustration with priority boarding given to passengers with Cowry cards over cash payers, prompting plans for a fully automated fare system that stays affordable for all riders.
Operational-wise, twelve buses run daily, completing around 60 trips between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., moving about 6,000 students every day. The university’s support in providing space for charging stations has been crucial, making UNILAG an ideal site for this electric vehicle pilot.
Beyond convenience, the project helps the university reduce its carbon footprint, aligning with its environmental goals under Vice Chancellor Prof. Folashade Ogunsola’s leadership. Experts estimate the buses’ zero emissions significantly cut the pollution normally generated by traditional campus transport.
Behind the scenes, running the electric bus system faces challenges like high electricity tariffs and maintenance costs, with spare parts often needing to be imported. Still, the project is seen as a test case for expanding electric vehicles in Nigeria, where EV adoption remains low but is growing.
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