The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a groundbreaking ₦213.7 billion investment in sustainable electrification projects, with ₦145 billion allocated to eight federal universities and one teaching hospital, including the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.
In addition, ₦68.7 billion was earmarked to deploy solar power to rural communities and agricultural clusters that currently lack access to the national grid.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, made this known while briefing State House correspondents after the FEC meeting. He described the initiative as a strategic and forward-looking intervention aimed at reducing dependence on the overstretched national grid, cutting operational costs, and promoting inclusive development.
“This marks a significant step in upgrading infrastructure in our tertiary institutions,” Adelabu stated. “It will cut down energy expenses, reduce the use of diesel generators, and ensure a reliable, clean power supply for education, research, and healthcare services.”
The approved electrification projects will benefit the following institutions in the first phase:
University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife
University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
University of Ibadan (UI)
University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
Federal University, Wukari (Taraba State)
According to the Ministry of Power, the goal is to transition critical public institutions to renewable energy systems, leveraging solar power as a reliable and cost-efficient alternative. The initiative is expected to drastically reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improve power reliability, and enhance the learning, research, and healthcare environment in these institutions.
The Minister also hinted that more universities and public institutions will be included in subsequent phases of the project, as part of the Federal Government’s broader agenda to bridge the energy gap and accelerate sustainable development across the country.
This development comes as part of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places emphasis on energy transition, rural development, and climate-smart infrastructure.
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