By Peter Omopo
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, on Wednesday announced that 24 federal tertiary institutions across Nigeria have been successfully powered by solar energy under the Federal Government’s “Energising Education Project.”
Speaking in Abuja at a collaboration agreement signing ceremony with the vice chancellors of the beneficiary institutions, Alausa also revealed that eight additional universities have joined the fourth phase of the initiative.
The minister, who had earlier inspected the newly commissioned solar facility at the University of Abuja—recently renamed Yakubu Gowon University—praised the project as a transformative milestone for education in Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Describing it as “a new day for Nigeria,” Alausa said the solar energy initiative is designed to provide round-the-clock electricity to federal campuses, significantly enhancing academic, research, and residential operations.
He noted that the University of Abuja now operates a 6,000-panel solar farm generating approximately 3.3 megawatts daily, ensuring 24-hour power supply across the institution.
“This project powers laboratories, libraries, and classrooms day and night, while also improving the quality of life for both students and staff,” the minister said.
Alausa further highlighted the economic benefits, stating that stable electricity boosts commercial activities within campus communities.
The initiative is funded through the Renewable Infrastructure Fund established by the Tinubu administration to support key infrastructure projects across various sectors.
