The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has restricted the entry of private vehicles, including ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt, into its campus, a move that has sparked frustration among students. The policy, effective since January 2025, allows only vehicles registered under students or staff and properly identified with a valid UNILORIN ID card to access the school premises.
Students have reported worsening mobility, long queues, and even missed tests since the restriction took effect. Many had relied on ride-hailing services as a practical alternative to overcrowded buses, often sharing rides to save time and reduce stress. With the ban, students are now forced to rely primarily on the university’s shuttle services, which many describe as inadequate.
University officials cited safety concerns and an ongoing review of ride-hailing operations as reasons for the decision. A top official stated that a thorough evaluation of ride-hailing services is underway following allegations of misconduct, emphasizing the university’s commitment to maintaining campus safety and cleanliness.
However, students have raised concerns about the capacity of the university’s shuttle system, particularly the newly introduced CNG buses, which they say are insufficient. Some also criticized the policy as interfering with their personal choices, arguing that as adults, they should be allowed to decide how to spend their money and manage their comfort.
The restriction has also affected ride-hailing drivers, many of whom depend heavily on campus trips for daily income. Reports indicate that drivers now drop students at the school gate, leaving them to navigate long queues to enter the campus.
To address the inconvenience, UNILORIN has introduced alternative transportation options, including five new CNG buses and 10 electric tricycles, with plans to add 100 electric vehicles to ease student movement across the campus.
The university’s decision underscores the balance it is trying to maintain between ensuring campus safety and addressing students’ transportation needs, though it continues to generate debate among the campus community.