University of Ilorin Vice-Chancellor Prof Wahab Egbewole Unveils CNG Buses and Electric Tricycles to Fix Lingering Campus Transport Problems in Ilorin

A Fresh Push to Fix Campus Mobility

Getting around a busy university campus can quickly become frustrating when transport systems fall short.

At the University of Ilorin, management has decided to take firm steps to change that narrative by introducing cleaner, more organised, and institution-controlled transportation options for staff and students.

New Buses and Tricycles Take Centre Stage

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof Wahab Egbewole (SAN), has officially unveiled five Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses alongside 20 electric tricycles.

The move is part of a broader plan to tackle lingering transportation challenges and bring order back to campus mobility.

According to the university, this initiative is also about efficiency and ensuring that transport operations are fully managed under the institution’s authority.

Why the Transport System Faced Setbacks

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held at the New Motor Park on campus, Prof Egbewole explained that many of the transport difficulties experienced last year stemmed from the relocation of the university motor park.

While the change initially caused discomfort and resistance, he described it as a well-thought-out and necessary decision.

According to him, the relocation was designed to protect the university’s master plan and align UNILORIN with global standards.

Even though the transition was challenging at first, he expressed confidence that the long-term benefits would outweigh the early setbacks.

Improvements Already Underway at the New Park

The Vice-Chancellor revealed that notable progress has already been made at the new motor park.

Plans are also in motion to further upgrade the facility, including the construction of a shopping mall within the park before the end of the year.

He assured the university community that these developments are aimed at creating a more functional and user-friendly transport hub.

More Than Vehicles, It’s About Attitude and Control

Prof Egbewole noted that the transport problem was not solely about the number of vehicles available.

He pointed to issues of coordination, attitude, and compliance as major contributors.

To address this, he disclosed that he personally monitors operations at the park and often arrives as early as 6:00 am to ensure things run smoothly.

Under the new system, all transport operators on campus will work under direct university supervision.

This, he said, would improve fleet management, ensure better connectivity, and guarantee punctual and reliable services, especially during peak periods.

Students Praised for Calm and Cooperation

The Vice-Chancellor commended UNILORIN students for their patience and maturity throughout the transition period.

He noted that despite the inconveniences, students remained calm and showed no hostility towards the institution, describing their conduct as commendable.

Support from Government and Private Partners

Prof Egbewole expressed gratitude to the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for providing the 20 electric tricycles through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

He added that the university is still expecting additional CNG buses earlier promised.

He also acknowledged Starlink Global & Ideal Limited for a ₦200 million intervention provided in July 2025 to help address transport challenges.

The Works and Security units of the university were equally praised for their roles in implementing the new transport arrangements.

Special recognition was given to Mr Olufemi Awolola, Chairman of the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), UNILORIN branch, for his consistent support.

Transport Reform as Part of a Bigger Vision

Earlier, the Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Dr Alex Akanmu, explained that the initiative aligns with the Vice-Chancellor’s strategic plans for 2026.

He described the new transport policy and the introduction of electric tricycles as deliberate efforts to improve staff and student welfare while eliminating extortion and other unhealthy practices.

According to him, the reforms are built around fairness, orderliness, and efficiency within the campus transport system.

Students’ Union Welcomes the Development

The President of the Students’ Union, Adelu Ayomo, described the unveiling as a major step towards resolving long-standing transport issues on campus.

He praised the university management for listening to student concerns and responding with practical and measurable solutions.

Ayomo also highlighted the discipline shown by students during the transition, noting that situations like this often trigger unrest in other institutions, but UNILORIN students chose cooperation instead.

What’s Next?

With new vehicles on ground, tighter supervision in place, and further infrastructure development planned, attention now turns to consistent implementation.

The coming months will likely determine how effectively these reforms reshape daily movement across the University of Ilorin campus and whether the promised long-term benefits fully materialise.

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