- Nigeria partners with the World Bank and AfDB to invest $250 million in electricity for universities and teaching hospitals.
- The Energising Education Programme will install solar hybrid power plants to boost reliable energy supply and enhance education.
The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB), is working to provide electricity to selected universities and teaching hospitals across the country. Mr. Abba Aliyu, Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), highlighted this initiative during the Energising Education Programme 2024 Stakeholders’ Engagement Forum held in Abuja on September 20, 2024.
Aliyu reported that over $250 million has already been invested in Phases I, II, and III of the program to develop infrastructure, build distribution networks, upgrade substations, and install meters in connected areas. He also announced the construction of state-of-the-art training centres focused on renewable energy.
Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, represented by Mr. Bem Ayangeaor, Assistant Director of Renewable and Rural Power Access, stressed that access to energy is vital for education and overall development. He noted that reliable electricity allows schools to extend learning hours, utilise educational technology, and create safe environments, boosting enrollment and enhancing academic performance.
Adelabu pointed out that while many Nigerian universities are linked to the national grid, the reliability and quality of electricity supply can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas. He identified challenges such as infrastructure limitations and financial constraints that hinder the availability of quality education. However, he highlighted opportunities for innovation through investments in renewable energy technologies, improved grid infrastructure, and energy efficiency initiatives.
The minister emphasised that beneficiary institutions must take ownership of the projects and actively participate in their sustainability to maximise the impact of the Energising Education Programme (EEP).
Olufemi Akinyelure, Head of the Nigerian Electrification Project (NEP) at REA, underscored the importance of collaboration between REA and the universities. He noted that the forum gathered vice-chancellors, chief medical directors, and other key stakeholders to discuss the future of the EEP, mainly focusing on urgent interventions to enhance the sustainability of power plants installed during Phase I.
Since its launch in 2018, the EEP aims to provide reliable electricity to 37 federal universities and seven affiliated teaching hospitals nationwide, equipping them with solar hybrid power plants capable of generating over 100 megawatts of clean energy.
Representatives from beneficiary universities expressed optimism about the project. Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, welcomed the new energy initiative, acknowledging that energy issues have long affected Nigerian universities. He emphasised the need for schools to take ownership to ensure sustainability.
Mrs. Ruksiyatu Ahmed, Director of the Physical Planning Unit at Modibo Adamawa University in Yola, echoed the sentiment, stating that the project’s timing is crucial and its importance cannot be overstated. She expressed gratitude to those involved in bringing the project to fruition.
To ensure the long-term success of these initiatives, the REA and the beneficiary universities have signed a collaborative agreement focused on sustainability.