Polytechnic Invents Electric Tricycle, Seeks Government Support for Mass Production 

Polytechnic invents Electric Tricycle

The Federal Polytechnic in Ilaro, Ogun State, has created an electric automated tricycle and is planning to establish a mini assembly plant for its mass production. The Rector, Dr. Mukail Akinde, shared this news on Friday, saying the polytechnic aims to reduce the need for imports and ease the pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange. The project could also create jobs for young Nigerians. Dr. Akinde called on the Federal Government and corporate organizations, particularly in manufacturing, to support the commercial production of the tricycle. This, he said, would bring significant benefits to the economy. 

Seeking Partners for Commercial Production 

The tricycle, which was built at the polytechnic’s innovation center, is the first of its kind in Nigeria. The rector explained that the current model is just a prototype. The final version will seat three people—one rider and two passengers—and will include a solar panel to charge the tricycle. However, for full-scale production, Dr. Akinde said they need partnerships with companies like Innoson Motors and funding from the government. He stressed that without support for commercial production, Nigeria would have to import similar products, adding more strain on foreign exchange. The rector also announced plans to produce three tricycles for use on the polytechnic campus in the next season. 

Governing Council’s Response 

The Chairman of the Polytechnic’s Governing Council, Alhaji Garba Gashua, praised the innovation and expressed pride in the polytechnic’s efforts. He assured that he would push for government support to bring the project to life. Gashua mentioned that almost all materials used in the tricycle’s construction were sourced locally. He also suggested changes for the next model, such as adding space for three passengers at the back, like the regular tricycles commonly used in Nigeria. 

The success of this electric tricycle will help reduce imports, ease pressure on our foreign exchange, and create job opportunities for our youth. We need the support of the government and partners to take this innovation to the next level.” 
— Dr. Mukail Akinde, Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro. 

Support from Automotive Council 

The National Automotive Design and Development Council commended the polytechnic’s efforts. Mr. Ayinde Abdullahi, Director of Vehicle Electrification, highlighted the potential impact on local production, especially as more raw materials companies are being developed by the Federal Government. The Director of the Innovation Centre, Jide Soyemi, said the Centre was established three years ago to expose students to advanced technology like Artificial Intelligence, robotics, drones for agriculture, and portable inverters for small businesses. The electric tricycle is one of the latest innovations from the centre, with students contributing over 80% to its development. 

In conclusion, the Federal Polytechnic Ilaro’s electric tricycle represents a breakthrough in local innovation with the potential to reduce import dependency and create jobs in Nigeria. However, for this project to reach commercial production, support from the government and private sector is crucial. With adequate funding and partnerships, this invention could pave the way for Nigeria’s future in clean energy transportation and boost the local manufacturing industry.