Oando Strengthens Collaboration with Lagos on Electric Bus Project

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Oando Clean Energy Limited (OCEL), the renewable energy business subsidiary of Oando Plc, and its technical partner, Yutong Bus Co., a sustainable transport company, have deepened collaboration with the Lagos Ministry of Transportation and the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA).

The delegation led by the President and Chief Executive, OCEL, Ademola Ogunbanjo, and James Li, Vice President, Yutong’s International Business Department, met with their Lagos state counterparts to discuss the next phase of the ongoing collaboration on sustainable mass transportation improvements in the state.

A statement by Oando said it was prompted by the successful 18-month performance of their electric mass transit buses project, with the meetings reaffirming OCEL’s commitment to transforming public transportation in Lagos.
“Since inception of the electric buses project, key milestones achieved include: A total distance coverage of 169,794 km across Oshodi-Obalende and Oshodi-Ikorodu routes, serving 301,435 riders.

“The project has also significantly impacted the environment by cutting 229,221.9 kg of carbon emissions and achieving cost savings of circa N122,250,000, equivalent to 84,897 litres of diesel,” the statement added.
Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, reiterated the government’s continued support for OCEL, recognising electric buses as a critical component of the state’s transformative solution for public transport.

In reappraising the proof-of-concept phase that preceded the project’s pilot, he confirmed the viability of the e-buses, highlighting their efficiency, comfort, and adaptability to the peculiarities of Lagos roads.
“The buses have proven dependable and adaptable for Lagos roads and highways”, Osiyemi stated, while also emphasising the long-term cost benefits and efficiencies that electric buses can deliver over fuel-based models.
Osiyemi commended OCEL’s key role in promoting awareness of the electric mass transit buses project, while urging them on providing electric buses models that can serve diverse socio-economic groups, with the aim of reducing the number of cars on the roads.

Highlighting the critical role of collaboration in driving the project’s success,  Ogunbanjo stated: “We appreciate the Lagos State government’s support and acknowledge the crucial role of our partnership in making this project a reality.
“Together, we are creating a more sustainable, efficient, and reliable transportation system that benefits Lagos and its residents”.

During their meeting, all parties reiterated their shared long-term commitment to sustainable transportation.
LAMATA’s Managing Director, Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, shared the authority’s vision on long-term viability beyond bus procurement.

She emphasised the need for a fully integrated support system for the buses, including maintenance facilities and a training centre for drivers, engineers, and support teams to sustain electric bus operations.
Speaking to this concern, Li reassured the LAMATA MD that the goal was to provide sustainable transportation solutions, not just sell buses.

“We’re dedicated to supporting our partner, OCEL and Lagos State in their quest of making a positive impact on the environment and improving the quality of life for Lagos residents,” he added.
The partnership aims to build a cleaner, more efficient transportation network for Lagos residents.