Transport tricycle operators, popularly known as Keke drivers, operating within Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, have commended the school management and the Students Union Government (SUG) for the effective regulation of transport fare within the campus. The Nigeria Education News team recently visited the campus and interacted with several Keke drivers who expressed satisfaction with the current structure of transportation on campus.
According to them, the transportation system at the Polytechnic has been stable and well-organised due to mutual understanding between the institution’s authorities, the SUG, and the transport union. They noted that fixed transport fares have eliminated confusion, arguments, and exploitation of students, particularly during periods of fuel scarcity or economic instability.
One of the drivers, Mr. Ismail Adebayo, explained that the cost of moving from the school gate to central destinations like the Students Union Building is fixed at ₦150, while slightly farther areas attract a fee of ₦200. “It has been like that for some time now, and both students and drivers are comfortable with it. Nobody is cheating anybody,” he said.
He further praised the Students Union leaders for playing an active role in enforcing the fare structure, noting that they often mediate when new drivers attempt to flout the agreed pricing. “The SUG has really done well. They hold meetings with us and ensure everyone is on the same page,” Mr. Adebayo added.
Another driver, Mrs. Raliat Jimoh, noted that the cooperation between drivers and students has improved significantly over the past year. She stated that there are fewer conflicts because the rules are clear and fair to both sides. “We no longer hear stories of students refusing to pay or drivers charging extra. Everything is organized, and the students even respect us more now,” she said.
The Keke drivers also commended the school management for supporting the agreement and ensuring that transport operators are properly registered and regulated on campus. According to them, this has created a sense of belonging and legitimacy for the drivers, who now see themselves as part of the campus community.
Speaking with The Nigeria Education News, a representative of the transport union on campus disclosed that a fare monitoring committee, comprising members of the SUG and transport officials, was put in place to maintain order. “Whenever there is a complaint from either a driver or a student, the committee steps in immediately,” he explained.
Students who also spoke with our correspondent affirmed the drivers’ claims, acknowledging that the transport system on campus has become more efficient and less stressful. They appreciated the transparency and fairness in the system, especially at a time when transportation across the country is increasingly expensive.
In a time when rising fuel prices and economic challenges have made transportation unpredictable in many Nigerian institutions, the example at Kwara State Polytechnic is one worthy of emulation. The cooperation between the students’ body, the transport operators, and the school authorities stands as a model for managing essential campus services in a peaceful and student-friendly manner.
The Nigeria Education News will continue to monitor and report on best practices in Nigerian tertiary institutions, especially where they impact the daily welfare of students and staff.
