UNILAG Expands Electric Buses by 20 to Reduce Carbon Emissions

By Anthony Gift, Testimony Olalekan, Barakat Lawal

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has expanded its fleet of electric buses from 10 to 30, as part of its efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by more than 120 metric tons by the end of 2025.

The Electric Vehicle (EV) initiative, was launched in January, 2025, by the university in partnership with Ogata Global Resources and Chart Eco Global Services.

In a press statement on Thursday, September 25, the university noted that its initial fleet of 10 electric buses had covered over 102,000 kilometers in the first half of the year, resulting in a reduction of 16.78 metric tons in carbon dioxide emissions.

UNILAG said that with 20 new electric buses added, the university now has 30 in its fleet. The buses are expected to cover about 700 kilometers and help cut carbon emissions by 124 metric tons by the end of the year.

The CEO of Ogata Global Resources, Henry Eke said, “This initiative is timely, especially given the current economic realities. The EVs provide a more affordable transport option while also contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment.”

The institution said that the carbon emissions reduction is equivalent to planting and nurturing about 5,600 trees in a year.

This achievement, it said, aligns with its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on climate action, clean energy, and sustainable cities.

The CEO of Chart Eko Global Services, Mr. Itinulowa Olusami, highlighted that the initiative shows the possibilities of decarbonising Nigeria’s transportation sector.

“This initiative is a proof of concept to decarbonise Nigeria’s heavily polluted transport sector. I am delighted at the amount of carbon we’ve been able to prevent from entering our environment. More importantly, this model proves we can scale sustainable mobility across schools and communities, making an even bigger impact,” he said.

According to the statement, the emissions data were calculated and verified by Chart Eco Global Services, a sustainability firm that helps organisations in Nigeria measure and manage emissions.

The analysis followed internationally recognised standards, including the UK’s DEFRA, the US EPA, and the IPCC 2006 Guidelines, ensuring compliance with global best practices. The tracking tool, based on the GHG Protocol for mobile combustion and developed by Clear Standards Inc. in partnership with the World Resources Institute (WRI), provided transparency, consistency, and credibility.

It was stated that the methodology was also reviewed by experts at the TETFund Centre of Excellence in Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management (TCEBCEM), UNILAG.

Environmental expert, Dr. Okwong Walter of UNILAG’s TCEBCEM, endorsed the emissions report and lauded the university’s sustainability efforts. He added that the electric vehicle initiative is expected to improve air quality around the campus by cutting down on pollutants from traditional vehicles.