The University of Lagos, UNILAG is leading the charge in sustainable campus transportation with its Electric Vehicle, EV shuttle initiative, projected to cut more than 120 metric tons of carbon dioxide, CO₂ emissions by the end of 2025.
Launched in January 2025, the initiative is a joint effort between UNILAG, Ogata Global Resources, and Chart Eco Global Services. In its first six months, a fleet of 10 electric buses covered over 102,000 kilometres, reducing emissions by 16.78 metric tons of CO₂.
With an additional 20 EVs recently added to the fleet, making it a total of 30 buses, the university is now on track to achieve a 124 metric ton reduction by year’s end.
The impact is equivalent to planting and nurturing approximately 5,600 trees in a single year, highlighting the university’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),especially those related to climate action, clean energy, and sustainable cities.
The emissions data was verified by Chart Eco Global Services, which used international standards, including the UK’s DEFRA, the US EPA, and the IPCC 2006 Guidelines, to ensure accuracy and global best practices.
The tracking tool was based on the GHG Protocol for mobile combustion, developed by Clear Standards Inc. and the World Resources Institute (WRI), and further reviewed by the TETFund Centre of Excellence in Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management (TCEBCEM) at UNILAG.
“This initiative is a proof of concept to decarbonise Nigeria’s heavily polluted transport sector,” said Itinulowa Okusami, CEO of Chart Eco Global Services. “More importantly, it proves we can scale sustainable mobility across schools and communities, making an even bigger impact.”
Henry Eke, CEO of Ogata Global Resources, echoed this sentiment: “This initiative is timely, especially given the current economic realities. The EVs provide a more affordable transport option while contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment.”
Also, environmental expert Dr. Okwong Walter of TCEBCEM confirmed the integrity of the emissions analysis and praised UNILAG’s bold steps in environmental stewardship.
“The initiative will significantly improve air quality on and around campus by reducing pollutants typically emitted by conventional vehicles,” he said.
Blacktalker reports that beyond the numbers, the initiative is setting a national benchmark for clean, inclusive mobility within higher education institutions. The UNILAG’s electric buses also demonstrate that sustainability is not just an aspiration,, it’s a practical, impactful strategy for shaping healthier lives and communities.