TETFund Launches 240 E-Tricycles Across 12 Public Universities to Enhance Student Transportation

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has officially begun the rollout of 240 electric tricycles (e-tricycles) across 12 public universities in Nigeria. The initiative, launched on Monday at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), is a major component of the Federal Government’s E-Tricycle Deployment Programme aimed at promoting clean, affordable and reliable transportation for students.

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, who oversaw the launch, said the project aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to deliver sustainable solutions across key sectors, including tertiary education.

“This is Renewed Hope in action – practical, measurable, and impactful for our students,” the Minister stated.

E-Tricycles and Solar Charging Stations for 12 Campuses

Alongside the e-tricycles, TETFund will deploy 12 solar-powered charging stations, one at each participating university. These facilities will provide steady power for charging the vehicles and support the transition to eco-friendly campus mobility.

Alausa confirmed that each university’s Student Union Government (SUG) will own, manage, and regulate the e-tricycle operations, including setting affordable fares and ensuring long-term sustainability.

UNILAG Already Leading in Sustainable Campus Transport

UNILAG has been at the forefront of electric mobility. In January, the university introduced electric buses through a partnership with Ogata Global Resources and Chart Eco Global Service.

The initiative began with 10 electric buses, which covered over 102,000 kilometres and reduced carbon emissions by 16.78 metric tons of CO₂. The fleet later expanded to 30 electric vehicles, with a combined projected mileage of 700 kilometres.

The university is now on track to achieve a 124-metric-ton reduction in CO₂ emissions by 2025, solidifying its position as a leader in campus sustainability efforts.

A Wider Federal Initiative for Safer, Cheaper Student Mobility

TETFund first announced its e-tricycle plan in November as part of a broader intervention to reduce the transportation risks and costs faced by students nationwide.

Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arc. Sonny Echono emphasised that electric vehicles offer lower operational costs, making transportation more affordable while promoting sustainability.

He added that giving students responsibility for managing the e-tricycles will ensure transparency, accountability and long-term viability.

Part of Broader Support for Tertiary Institutions

Beyond mobility, the Federal Government is rolling out additional interventions targeting:

• Power supply improvements
• Accommodation for students
• Upgraded learning facilities
• Support for the National Student Loan Scheme (NELFund)

TETFund also plans to expand investment in:

• Research laboratories
• Digital and smart learning systems
• Sustainable power infrastructure

These efforts are expected to strengthen academic quality and enhance the overall learning environment across Nigerian tertiary institutions.