By Ayomide Otitoju
The Federal Government has launched the Renewed Hope Campus Transport Scheme, deploying 240 solar-powered electric tricycles to 12 federal universities to improve student mobility and promote clean, sustainable transport.
The initiative was inaugurated at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa FAMedS CON, who said the scheme was a direct directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement innovative and sustainable solutions for students. “Mr. President directed that we design solutions that are innovative, sustainable and responsive to the needs of our young people,” he stated.
Under the programme, each university received 20 tricycles and one solar-powered charging station. Student Union Governments will manage operations, offering rides at reduced fares to ensure affordability while generating funds for maintenance and potential expansion.
The 12 beneficiary universities, representing all six geopolitical zones, include UNILAG, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Nigeria Nsukka, University of Benin, University of Jos, and Ahmadu Bello University. The scheme is expected to cut student transport costs by over 70%, enhance campus mobility, and advance zero-emission transportation.
Dr. Alausa also announced plans for additional tricycles under the TETFund 2026 cycle, free CNG conversions for 2,000 staff vehicles, and an 11 MW solar mini-grid for UNILAG. UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, described the initiative as a significant boost to the university’s green mobility agenda.
The Ministry of Education officially flagged off full operations of the scheme, reiterating the government’s commitment to students’ welfare and sustainable innovation.
