Unizik signs N5b transport deal with Dolphite Ventures & Chinese coy

Prof. Charles Okechukwu Esimone, the Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State has, on October 14, 2021, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dolphite Ventures Nig. Ltd. and Legacy FMCG Nig. Ltd. for the establishment of Unizik Transport Scheme (UTS).

The proposed Unizik Transport Scheme (UTS) is a five billion Naira Public/Private Partnership (PPP) integrated Mass Transit project between Higer Bus Company Ltd., China, China Faw Group & China National Heavy Duty Company Ltd (Sinotruk) all represented by Legacy-FMCG Trading Company Nig. Ltd.

The project is being promoted by Dolphite Ventures Nig. Ltd.

An observer, who witnessed the vent said that “from all intent and purposes, Prof. Esimone may be leading a subtle and calm developmental revolution at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, with little or no noise.

“Those who know him well attest to his self-effacement visage.

“Barely two years in office, has he practically attracted sterling international projects to the school,” he added.

Speaking the during the event, Okoro Chinedum Benedict, the Chairman of Dolphite Ventures Nig. Ltd. explained.

“The UTS project is aimed at supporting the University to benefit from the huge economic potentials inherent in the transport sector; and to create an alternative source of revenue for the University.

“The project is part of our Post COVID-19 economic plan, designed to create jobs for the students and assist institutions to leapfrog from the devastating economic downturn occasioned by the pandemic.

“It is our desire to help Nigerian Universities take a lead in sustainable investment programs.”

Similarly, explaining the operational dynamics of the UTS project, the CEO of LEGACY FMCG, Mr. Tony Godson Uzoma and representative of the consortium of the Chinese automobiles gave details of the commitment of the Group of companies towards the UTS project.

He went further to explain how the University and its environs will benefit from Gradual Technology/Knowledge Transfer associated with the Multi-purpose Vehicle Assembly Center and the Higer G-BOS monitoring fleet (IT infrastructure) which will be sited inside the school.

Mr. Okoro further stated that the UTS will redefine transportation in the country using State of the Art applications such as Automated Transport Management Systems (ATMS).

“We shall blend transportation with pleasure, comfort and confidence,” he noted.

With a tone full of appreciation, the Vice Chancellor of the University Professor Esimone, who has been leading several transformational projects that tend to breach the gap between theory and practice, expressed his confidence in the project.

He said that the University is willing to offer all necessary support as contained in the MoU to ensure the success of the UTS project.

Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu (DVC Administration) the Registrar, Bursar and other administrative heads of the University were all present.