The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved N145 billion for the provision of solar power systems in eight federal universities and one teaching hospital, as part of the government’s efforts to improve electricity supply in Nigeria’s higher education institutions and healthcare facilities.
The project, under the Energizing Education Programme, will be executed by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and funded through the Special Intervention Window of the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund.
Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, disclosed this to reporters after Thursday’s FEC meeting in Abuja. He said the initiative is a key component of the Tinubu administration’s drive to promote clean and stable energy solutions in critical sectors.
According to him, the solar projects will significantly reduce the institutions’ reliance on diesel generators, lower energy costs, and ensure steady power supply for academic work and medical services.
The universities selected for this phase include the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile Ife, University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), University of Ibadan (UI), and Federal University Wukari (FUW) in Taraba State. Also included is the University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan. Additional institutions will be confirmed at the commencement of the project.
The N145 billion allocation includes 7.5 percent Value Added Tax and covers engineering, procurement and construction. The project is expected to be delivered within seven to nine months.
“This marks a significant step in transforming power infrastructure in our universities and healthcare centres,” Adelabu said. “It will enhance the quality of learning, support innovation and improve research output across campuses, while ensuring dependable electricity for hospital operations.”
The Minister noted that the project builds on earlier phases of the Energizing Education Programme supported by the World Bank, which delivered solar mini grids to institutions such as the University of Abuja, University of Calabar, UNN and the Nigerian Defence Academy.
In a related development, the Council also approved N68.7 billion for solar power deployment in rural communities and agricultural clusters that are not connected to the national grid. The initiative is aimed at powering homes, agro processing centres, cold storage systems and small rural businesses, with a delivery timeline of three months.
Adelabu explained that this second component, also to be implemented by the REA, will stimulate economic activity, drive agricultural productivity and support job creation in underserved areas.
“Our goal is not just to light up rural homes, but to energise agriculture, boost value addition and create jobs in the communities,” he said.
The Minister stressed that both projects reflect the administration’s commitment to bridging the energy access gap and positioning clean electricity as a driver of inclusive development.
“These approvals reaffirm President Tinubu’s resolve to use reliable power as a foundation for growth, particularly in education, health and agriculture,” Adelabu added.
