- The ₦70 billion initiative supports innovation, sustainability, and academic excellence.
- Twelve universities across Nigeria will benefit from dedicated renewable energy mini-grids.
The TETFund Mini-Grid Solar Power Project is transforming Nigeria’s higher education sector through renewable energy innovation. With ₦70 billion approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the initiative will deliver sustainable electricity to twelve universities nationwide. Consequently, it represents a significant step toward a cleaner, more resilient education system.
Moreover, the TETFund Mini-Grid Solar Power Project aims to reduce energy costs and dependence on the unreliable national grid. This initiative will power campuses with cleaner, more efficient energy solutions while promoting environmental responsibility and sustainability.
At the 2025 TETFund National Town Hall Meeting in Abuja, Chairman Aminu Bello Masari described the project as a landmark achievement. He further explained that the initiative demonstrates President Tinubu’s dedication to modernising tertiary education through renewable energy technology and underscores the administration’s commitment to improving learning infrastructure nationwide.
The project’s first phase will notably cover institutions such as the Nigerian Army University, Biu; Northwest University, Kano; Ambrose Alli University, Edo; Alvan Ikoku University of Education, Imo; and Lagos State University. Each university will receive a solar-powered mini-grid designed to enhance learning environments and ensure a steady power supply.
Masari, a former governor of Katsina State, also highlighted significant progress under the Tinubu administration. He says TETFund has sponsored 3,332 Master’s and 4,796 PhD scholars locally. These efforts have strengthened academic capacity and produced globally competitive researchers.
Furthermore, he added that TETFund supports teaching practice, research, and technology-driven education. Through these interventions, the Fund aims to make Nigerian institutions globally recognised for innovation and problem-solving.
Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono praised President Tinubu for prioritising educational reform. He also announced that the education tax rate has been increased from 2.5% to 3%, thereby significantly boosting TETFund’s capacity to execute impactful projects.
In addition, Echono clarified that foreign scholar training was suspended except for specialised fields. However, he stated that a new policy would ensure that beneficiaries of government scholarships return home to contribute to national development.
On the other hand, former ASUU President Professor Emmanuel Osodeke urged lawmakers to regulate the creation of new universities. He suggested that institutions younger than five should not receive TETFund support until they stabilise academically. In his view, this will help ensure quality control and effective resource management.
Ultimately, this ₦70 billion solar power initiative reflects Nigeria’s determination to link education with sustainability. It will light up classrooms and power a brighter, greener, and more innovative academic future.