UNILORIN and Intramodal Consortium Forge Path to Pioneering Tram Transit System; The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), in collaboration with Intramodal System Consortium Limited, has entered into a momentous partnership to construct a state-of-the-art tram transit system within the university’s premises.
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This groundbreaking development was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on a sunny Monday in Ilorin. UNILORIN was represented by none other than Professor Wahab Egbewole, the esteemed Vice Chancellor, while Mr. Adekunle AbdulRazaq, the dynamic Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Intramodal, signed on behalf of the consortium.
Professor Egbewole, during his insightful remarks at the event, expressed an unwavering optimism about the realization of this transformative tram line project. He articulated that the entire UNILORIN community, comprising both the staff and students, eagerly anticipates the swift execution of the tram line. Furthermore, he emphasized that this landmark MoA represents a pioneering model that other universities in Nigeria could learn from and emulate.
Egbewole elaborated on the extensive discussions that took place over several months between UNILORIN and Intramodal, underscoring the commitment of both parties to ensure the project’s successful completion.
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Notably, he emphasized the decision to opt for an MoA instead of the more customary Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which symbolizes their resolute dedication to making this project a reality.
In his own words, Egbewole stated, “We deliberately chose MoA instead of MoU because we are committed to this process. Both parties believe that it is doable. That is why we are signing an agreement, not just an understanding. I hope and pray that this process will come to fruition.”
The tram line system, once completed, promises a multitude of benefits. According to the Vice Chancellor, it will substantially improve mobility within the bustling UNILORIN campus, offering a convenient and efficient mode of transportation for students, faculty, and visitors. Furthermore, it will address transportation challenges within the campus and underline the institution’s commitment to enhancing the overall campus experience.
Mr. Adekunle AbdulRazaq, CEO of Intramodal Consortium, expressed his excitement regarding the MoA, characterizing it as a pivotal moment in the quest for a pioneering campus transportation solution in Nigeria. He acknowledged potential challenges that may arise during this pioneering venture, highlighting the transformative potential of such an initiative. AbdulRazaq remarked, “This is a pioneer project in providing transportation solutions on any campus in Nigeria, and I know we might encounter some challenges, but when we get it done, it will signpost a new frontier in campus solutions.”
The consortium’s CEO also outlined the next steps, indicating that Intramodal System Consortium Limited would collaborate with relevant university departments to develop a comprehensive work plan by the end of October.
He stated, “The project’s development study will promptly commence, focusing on aspects such as defining the route alignment, cost estimation, planning the number of stops, infrastructure relocation, traffic patterns, coach capacity, electrification, and other necessary infrastructure requirements.” Despite the potential bureaucratic hurdles in Nigeria’s project development processes, AbdulRazaq exuded confidence in the consortium’s ability to navigate these challenges effectively.
Highlighting the uniqueness of the tram system initiative in Nigeria, AbdulRazaq noted that, while trams were relatively uncharted territory in the country, he possessed extensive experience with railways, which are far more complex.
He underscored the viability of trams as a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and efficient public transportation model tailored to address UNILORIN’s transportation challenges. “The cost differential cannot be ignored because we need to make it economically viable. Railways are not economically viable but socially desirable and typically subsidized by institutions.
Trams can be more cost-effective, and we are considering the student, staff, and visitor population at the University of Ilorin. We aim to establish a viable solution,” he stated. AbdulRazaq expressed enthusiasm about leveraging his wealth of transportation experience to pioneer this transformative project.
