The Federal Government of Nigeria will commission a 3-megawatt solar hybrid power plant at the University of Abuja in December 2024 to provide reliable and sustainable energy under the Energizing Education Programme. This initiative — led by REA — will reduce reliance on fossil fuels and transform the university's teaching, learning, and research environment.
Solar Hybrid Power Plant: Transformative Impact on Education
The Federal Government of Nigeria — through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) — is set to commission a 3-megawatt solar hybrid power plant at the University of Abuja. This project under the Energizing Education Programme (EEP) will ensure reliable and sustainable power supply to the university. It will transform the institution's teaching, learning, and research environment.
The commissioning ceremony is scheduled for early December 2024 and will be led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Located in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, this initiative is part of the REA's efforts to provide clean energy to federal universities and teaching hospitals across the country.
The solar hybrid power plant is designed to energize the entire University of Abuja. It will alleviate the university’s dependence on fossil fuels and the national grid, significantly reducing operational costs. Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi, expressed her excitement about the project, calling it a “game-changer” for the institution.
“Reliable power is the foundation for transformative education,” she said. “This project aligns with our mission to deliver quality education and foster innovation.”
Expanding Renewable Energy Solutions
The University of Abuja is one of 37 federal universities benefiting from the Energizing Education Programme. Additionally, seven university teaching hospitals have received similar support. The initiative aims to address the financial burden of fossil fuel reliance and grid electricity costs, which have plagued these institutions for years.
Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, praised the REA’s efforts. He highlighted the relief federal universities now experience due to clean and sustainable energy solutions. “The REA has been strategic in providing reliable power to our universities,” he said. “This intervention helps us focus on education rather than energy costs.”
Abubakar Abba Aliyu, Managing Director and CEO of the REA, emphasized the government’s commitment to renewable energy. He called the project a testament to the administration’s determination to reduce fossil fuel dependence and promote sustainable solutions. “This initiative exemplifies our commitment to innovative energy solutions,” Aliyu said. “The University of Abuja is now better positioned to deliver quality education while fostering research and development.”
Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Nigeria’s Minister of Power, described the project as a model for the country’s energy sector. He linked it to the Renewed Hope Agenda, the administration’s policy framework for sustainable development. “This project demonstrates what we aim to achieve across Nigeria’s educational and health sectors,” Adelabu stated.
Broader Implications for Nigeria’s Universities
The Energizing Education Programme — funded by the World Bank — aims to enhance the teaching and learning environment in federal institutions. It also seeks to reduce the environmental impact of traditional energy sources. Experts view the initiative as a vital step toward achieving energy sustainability in Nigeria.
Olufemi Akinyelure, Head of the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP), noted the broader impact of the program. “The EEP is not just about delivering power,” he said. “It transforms how universities function and thrive.”
The upcoming commissioning ceremony has generated excitement among stakeholders. The University of Abuja community eagerly anticipates the benefits of uninterrupted power supply. Additionally, other federal universities are inspired by this milestone, which sets a precedent for future projects.
The solar hybrid power plant marks a significant achievement in Nigeria’s renewable energy journey. It exemplifies how strategic investments can drive sustainable development in critical sectors like education. As the commissioning approaches, it is clear that this initiative will leave a lasting impact on the University of Abuja and beyond.