In a significant move to transform on-campus transportation, the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday donated and inaugurated a fleet of 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and 30 tricycles to the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.
The vehicles were formally unveiled at a ceremony held at the university’s sports arena, marking their immediate deployment to serve students, staff, and the wider university community.
The event drew a host of prominent traditional rulers and political figures, underscoring its importance. Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the First Lady of Osun State, Titilayo Adeleke; and Mrs. Kafayat Oyetola, wife of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy. Wives of several state governors were also present.
The ceremony was further graced by the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Ajero of Ijero-Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole; and the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji.
In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Simeon Bamire, expressed profound appreciation to Senator Tinubu, describing her intervention as both timely and impactful. He emphasized that the donation would dramatically improve mobility across the expansive campus.
“We thank the First Lady for her generosity to the school; she is one of the most shining stars of the institution,” Professor Bamire stated. “We are very happy with her donations to the development of the school.”
He added that the new fleet would “go a long way in reducing transportation stress for students, staff, and visitors.”
Echoing the administration’s sentiment, the President of the OAU Students’ Union, Oluwatodimu David, applauded the First Lady for the donation, noting it would bring substantial relief to the student body.
“We are happy for the donation of 50 buses and 30 tricycles for students and staff of OAU. It will ease transportation challenges and improve the quality of life of our community,” David said.
The student leader also acknowledged Senator Tinubu’s previous contributions to the university, which include campus beautification projects and the renovation of the Amphitheatre, describing her as a “consistent supporter of OAU’s development.”
The donation of the CNG-powered vehicles aligns with broader national initiatives to promote cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions for public transport.
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