UNILAG scales electric vehicles transportation on campus to cut CO₂ emissions

By Clem Ezeolisah 

Chart Eco Global Services, in partnership with Ogata Global Resources, is leading a significant transformation in sustainable transportation at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) through the UNILAG Electric Vehicle (EV) Initiative. The project aims to cut more than 120 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions by the end of 2025.

Chart Eco Global Services, Ogata Global Resources, and UNILAG launched the initiative in January 2025 to promote clean mobility and reduce the university’s carbon footprint by replacing fossil-fuel-powered vehicles with electric and solar-powered buses. Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, the Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, inaugurated the electric buses and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to sustainability and innovation-driven transport.

The initiative, according to The Electricity Hub’s reports, deployed an initial fleet of 10 electric buses within its first six months. These buses covered over 102,000 kilometres and achieved a reduction of 16.78 metric tons of CO₂. 

Building on this success, the partners expanded the fleet to 30 buses, targeting a 700,000-kilometre annual mileage and a total CO₂ reduction of 124 metric tons by the end of 2025. These emission savings equate to planting 5,600 trees in one year, highlighting the environmental value of UNILAG’s electric mobility programme.

Meanwhile, Mr Itunuoluwa Okusami, Chief Executive Officer of Chart Eco Global Services, praised the initiative’s measurable impact and national potential. “This project proves that we can decarbonise Nigeria’s transport sector. The measurable results we have achieved show that this model can scale across schools and communities nationwide to deliver greater impact,” he said.

Mr Henry Eke, Chief Executive Officer of Ogata Global Resources, emphasised the project’s economic and environmental relevance. “This initiative meets both environmental and economic needs. The electric buses offer an affordable and sustainable transport solution while improving air quality and supporting a healthier environment,” he stated.

In addition, Dr Okwong Walter, an environmental expert from the TETFund Centre of Excellence in Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management (TCEBCEM), UNILAG, verified the emissions data and commended the university for maintaining high sustainability standards. He confirmed that the project significantly improves air quality on and around the campus.