Nigerian Polytechnic Develops Automated Electric Tricycle, Unveils Plans To Establish Mini Assembly Plant For Solar-Powered Electric Tricycle, As Rector Seeks Government Support

Federal Polytechnic Ilaro Set To Establish Mini Assembly Plant For Solar-Powered Electric Tricycle, As Rector Seeks Government Support 

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State, Dr. Mukail Akinde, announced plans on Friday for the institution to establish a mini assembly plant focused on producing its newly developed electric automated tricycle. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija (OTN) News reports that the Rector emphasized the importance of this innovation, noting that it could help reduce reliance on imports, ease the strain on foreign exchange reserves, and create employment opportunities for Nigeria's youth. 

During a visit by the institution's Governing Council, led by its Chairman, Alhaji Garba Gashua, alongside the National Automotive Design and Development Council, the tricycle invention was showcased at the Polytechnic's Innovation Centre.

Dr. Akinde proudly stated that the institution is the first in Nigeria to manufacture such a tricycle, built and assembled entirely within its own innovation center. 

Acknowledging the potential of this breakthrough, Akinde called on the Federal Government and private sector organizations, particularly within the manufacturing industry, to support the polytechnic’s vision for the mass production of the tricycle. 

He stressed that commercial production of the innovation would not only stimulate the economy but also provide much-needed jobs for the youth.

Speaking further, Akinde highlighted the potential benefits of expanding production, explaining that this could mitigate the need for imports and thus reduce pressure on Nigeria's exchange rate.

Describing the prototype, Akinde revealed that it is designed to carry three passengers, including a solar-powered panel for continuous charging. 

The Polytechnic is aiming to develop a version that includes more advanced features, such as a reverse function not commonly found in existing tricycles. He expressed optimism that by the next phase, the polytechnic would be capable of producing multiple units, with a goal to introduce at least three tricycles for campus use.

In his response, Chairman, Alhaji Gashua expressed his enthusiasm for the innovation and pledged his commitment to rallying support for the Polytechnic’s initiative. He recounted his experience riding the tricycle during the tour and praised the institution's use of locally sourced materials in its production. 

Gashua also suggested modifications to the design, proposing that the next version should accommodate three passengers in the rear, in line with conventional tricycles models.

Additionally, the Director of Vehicle Electrification from the National Automotive Design and Development Council, Mr. Ayinde Abdullahi, commended the project and indicated that the completion of new raw material facilities by the Government would significantly enhance local automotive production.

Finally, Director of the Innovation Centre, Jide Soyemi, explained that the Center, which was established three years ago, was created to equip students with industry-relevant skills beyond the traditional curriculum. 

He noted that the students were heavily involved in the tricycle project, contributing more than 80% of the work. The Center also offers exposure to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and agricultural drones, among others.

The Polytechnic remains hopeful that with the right support, its pioneering electric tricycle could soon enter mass production, representing a major leap forward for innovation in Nigeria.