Nigerian universities are struggling with an alarming surge in electricity bills, with some institutions facing monthly charges ranging from N300 million to N400 million. This steep increase has intensified calls for sustainable solutions to mitigate the financial strain on these educational institutions.
TETFund has therefore begun discussions with the Ministry of Power to explore alternative energy options for universities. Arc. Sonny Echono, Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), has expressed grave concerns.
Speaking at a recent meeting with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Echono highlighted the unsustainable nature of the current electricity costs and stressed the urgent need for alternative power sources.
“It is clear that many of our universities are struggling under the weight of these exorbitant electricity bills. We must find viable solutions to alleviate this burden,” Echono said. He revealed that TETFund has begun discussions with the Ministry of Power to explore alternative energy options, including renewable sources such as solar and wind power.
The aim is to reduce dependency on the national grid and provide a more stable and cost-effective energy supply for universities. TETFund is already taking concrete steps in this direction.
In 2024, the fund initiated the construction of 36 modern hostel facilities across tertiary institutions, with plans to double this number to 72 by 2025. These new facilities are being designed with provisions for alternative power sources, helping universities manage their energy needs more efficiently and sustainably.
In addition to these efforts, TETFund addresses campus transportation challenges by converting existing buses to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and providing mass transit buses for students. These measures are part of a broader strategy to reduce the overall energy costs of running university campuses in the country.
Universities across Nigeria are facing a severe escalation in electricity costs, prompting a nationwide push for alternative power solutions. The University of Ilorin’s electricity bill has dramatically increased from N70 million to N230 million, with Vice-Chancellor Professor Wahab Egbewole calling for a reassessment of energy use and budget adjustments.
Similarly, the Federal University of Lafia and the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, have urged the National Assembly to support the shift to alternative energy sources. Recently, Babcock University was hit with a staggering N300 million in electricity bills. Meanwhile, the school’s President/Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adeola Tayo, has called for a review of electricity tariffs.
The widespread issues with electricity costs across Nigerian universities highlight the critical need for solutions. As the education sector seeks ways to manage financial pressures and maintain academic excellence, the push for renewable and cost-effective power sources becomes essential.