Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) received 21 brand-new shuttle buses on Friday, October 10, 2025, donated by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON.
The donation marks the first phase of a total of 50 buses promised by the First Lady to improve transportation within the campus. The gesture aims to replace commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, with safer and more comfortable means of transportation for students and staff.
According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Mr Abiodun Olarewaju, on Sunday, October 12, the arrival of the buses brought great joy across the campus, with students and staff describing it as a sign of progress and hope.
Fulfilling Pledge
It would be recalled that Senator Tinubu, an alumna of the University, made the promise during her conferment with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Administration on December 14, 2024. The event, which featured the grand ceremony of the University’s 48th Convocation, also awarded four other eminent personalities alongside the First Lady: Dr Akin Ogunbiyi, Professor Anthony Adegbulugbe, MTN Nigeria CEO, Karl Toriola, and Daere Afonya-A Akobo
During the event, she expressed concern over the heavy use of motorcycles on campus, noting that such a system was not safe or befitting of a modern university. She pledged to support the school by donating shuttle buses to improve mobility.
It is a profound investment – Vice Chancellor
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, led members of the management team to receive the buses. He appreciated the First Lady for keeping her word and described the donation as an important step toward a better transportation system on campus. He explained that the buses will operate on organised routes, linking hostels, lecture halls, and offices to ensure smooth and safe movement within the University. He stated, ‘This is not merely a gift of vehicles; it is a profound investment in the future of our scholars and the soul of our University.’
Professor Bamire stated further, ‘Beyond transportation, this initiative fosters a sense of community and pride. It will alleviate the physical strain on our roads, promote inclusivity for those with mobility challenges, and even contribute to environmental stewardship by curbing emissions from countless bikes. In essence, it is a catalyst for holistic institutional advancement, reminding us that true progress is built on partnerships that transcend generations.’
The Vice-Chancellor also seized the opportunity to urge fellow alumni to provide support for the institution, just the same way Senator Tinubu has done. He said, ‘I implore our distinguished graduates across the globe to lend their support. Whether through endowments, mentorship, or innovative contributions, let us all rally to nurture this citadel of knowledge that shaped us. Together, we can ensure OAU remains a shining emblem of African intellectual prowess.’
The donation of 21 new buses continues her strong support for her alma mater, following other contributions such as the commissioning of a 2.7-kilometre road, a student hostel, and a pavilion, as well as a ₦1 billion donation to the University. The University community has described this latest development as another clear sign of her lasting commitment to education and national development.