The Federal Executive Council has approved ₦68.7 billion to deliver reliable electricity to eight universities and their teaching hospitals, in what officials describe as a decisive move to end crippling blackouts on campuses.
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, said after Thursday’s FEC meeting that the projects fall under the Energising Education Programme, managed by the Rural Electrification Agency. He warned that the power situation in many institutions was “disturbing” and a direct threat to learning and healthcare. Beneficiaries include the University of Lagos, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, University of Ibadan, University College Hospital, Ahmadu Bello University, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Calabar and the Federal University, Wukari.
Adelabu said works will be completed within nine months and will build on earlier renewable energy projects, such as the 12MW solar facility at the University of Abuja and the 8MW system at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. He added that a parallel scheme would equip agricultural centres in rural communities with solar-powered processing tools. “This is not just about lighting classrooms,” he said. “It is about cutting costs, supporting research, and powering industries that serve local economies.”
