The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has applauded the Federal Government on its determination to achieving zero-emission through the transition from gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles.
Egbewole stated this when he received a delegation from the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) in his office. The team was at the University to commence work on the construction of a state-of-the-art Solar-Powered Electric Charging Station in the University.
Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Moji Taibat Bakare-Odunola, the Vice Chancellor expressed optimism about the initiative, saying, it is environmental friendly and has positive health impact.
While speaking on the significance of the initiative in fostering academic research and providing students with practical knowledge in renewable energy and electric vehicle technology, Prof. Egbewole noted that the establishment of the solar-powered charging station would enhance research efforts and offer valuable learning opportunities for students and Faculty members.
Earlier in his remarks, the leader of the NADDC team, Mr. Ogunmola Oloruntoba, stated that their visit to the University was to introduce the contractor and consultant responsible for the construction of the NADDC Solar-Powered Electric Charging Station to the University Management.
Mr Oloruntoba assured the University Management of the commitment of the team to ensuring the successful execution of the project. He reiterated that the solar-powered charging station would serve as a model for similar projects across the country, thereby contributing to Nigeria’s goal of achieving a cleaner and more sustainable transportation system.
Also speaking, the Project Consultant and representative of Greenarc Global Consultants Ltd, Arc. Martins Amough, listed the numerous benefits the charging station would bring to the University community. He also confirmed its potential to support research efforts, especially for students and staff of the Faculty of Engineering, who have a keen interest in renewable energy and electric vehicle technology.
The representative of the contractor, Jewel Construction and Engineering Services Limited, Alhaji Mohd Bello, noted that the electric vehicle charging station project is entering its second phase.
He explained that although the University of Ilorin was initially scheduled to be included in the first phase, bureaucratic delays caused a shift in the timeline.
Alhaji Bello, however, assured the University community that the project would be completed within four months, as his team is committed to ensuring timely delivery.
He further promised that the charging station would be of international standard, comparable to any world-class facility of its kind.
Joining the Vice Chancellor to receive the team were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Technology and Innovation), Prof. Muhtar Adeiza Etudaiye; the Registrar, Mr Mansur Alfanla; the University Librarian, Prof. Kamaldeen Tunde Omopupa; the immediate past Deputy Vice Chancellor (Management Services), Prof. Suleiman Folorunsho Ambali; the Director of Works, Engr. Ramoni Kolawole Amoo; and the Director of Physical Planning Unit, QS. Toyin Jimoh.
