UNILAG Electric Buses Project Targets 120 Metric Tons of Carbon Emission Cuts by Year End

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is on track to achieve a major breakthrough in sustainable transportation by eliminating more than 120 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions before the end of 2025 through its ambitious electric vehicle (EV) initiative.

Launched in January 2025 in partnership with Ogata Global Resources and Chart Eco Global Services, the project represents a bold step toward cleaner mobility and climate action within Nigeria’s higher education sector.

Expanding the Fleet for Greater Impact

During the first six months of operation, UNILAG’s initial fleet of 10 electric buses covered over 102,000 kilometres, successfully cutting 16.78 metric tons of CO₂. Following this success, the university expanded the fleet with an additional 20 electric buses, bringing the total to 30 vehicles. With a projected mileage of 700 kilometres per bus, the expanded fleet is expected to slash emissions by approximately 124 metric tons by the close of the year.

Experts say this level of carbon savings is equivalent to planting and nurturing around 5,600 trees in just one year, underscoring the university’s strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those promoting climate action, clean energy, and sustainable cities.

Verified Emission Reductions

According to a statement from UNILAG’s Communication Unit, the emissions data were calculated and verified by Chart Eco Global Services, a sustainability organisation that monitors and manages emissions for Nigerian institutions. The analysis adhered to internationally recognised standards, including the UK’s DEFRA, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the IPCC 2006 Guidelines.
The tracking tool used for the project is based on the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol for mobile combustion, developed by Clear Standards Inc. in collaboration with the World Resources Institute (WRI). This ensures transparency, accuracy, and credibility. The methodology also underwent review by specialists at the TETFund Centre of Excellence in Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Management (TCEBCEM) at UNILAG.

A Model for Nigeria’s Transport Sector

Mr. Itinulowa Okusami, CEO of Chart Eco Global Services, described the project as a “proof of concept to decarbonise Nigeria’s heavily polluted transport sector,” adding that the results demonstrate the potential to replicate sustainable mobility models in other schools and communities across the country.

Henry Eke, CEO of Ogata Global Resources, highlighted the dual benefits of the initiative, noting that the electric buses not only cut emissions but also provide a more affordable and healthier transport option at a time of rising fuel costs.

Environmental expert Dr. Okwong Walter of TCEBCEM praised UNILAG’s leadership in green innovation and confirmed the integrity of the emissions report. He also emphasised that the project will significantly improve air quality on and around the campus by reducing pollutants typically released by traditional combustion engines.

Leading the Way in Sustainable Mobility

The UNILAG electric bus initiative goes beyond upgrading transportation—it sets a national benchmark for clean, inclusive mobility within Nigeria’s education sector. By proving that large-scale emission reductions are achievable, the university is demonstrating that sustainability is not a distant vision but a practical, forward-thinking choice that protects the environment and enhances quality of life.

As the fleet continues to operate and expand, UNILAG is positioning itself as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s transition to a low-carbon future, showing that meaningful climate action can start on campuses and spread across communities.