The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a N3.8 billion contract for the construction of a 2-megawatt solar mini-grid to supply electricity to Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, in Kano State, in a move aimed at boosting energy access and promoting renewable power solutions within Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the university’s Deputy Registrar for Information and Public Affairs, Abdullahi Abdullahi, and made available to journalists on Thursday. The statement revealed that the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Mustapha Abdullahi, announced the project during a meeting with the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Musa Yakasai, held in Abuja on Wednesday.
According to the statement, the contract has already been awarded by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, with work on the project expected to commence soon. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the government to integrate clean and sustainable energy into critical sectors, particularly education.
Officials noted that the solar mini-grid, when completed, will significantly improve the power supply to the university, which has long grappled with erratic electricity. The project is expected to support academic activities, research, and administrative operations, while reducing dependence on fossil fuel-powered generators.
Speaking during the engagement, Mustapha Abdullahi emphasised the importance of renewable energy in driving national development, especially in institutions of higher learning where stable electricity is crucial for innovation and technological advancement. He added that the project aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and embracing cleaner energy alternatives.
The Vice-Chancellor, Musa Yakasai, welcomed the development, describing it as a major milestone for the university. He noted that consistent power supply has been a persistent challenge affecting teaching, laboratory work, and student life, expressing optimism that the solar project would usher in a new era of stability and growth for the institution.
“This intervention will not only enhance our academic environment but also position the university as a model for sustainable energy use among tertiary institutions in Nigeria,” Yakasai said.
Industry observers say the project reflects a growing trend of deploying renewable energy solutions in public institutions as Nigeria seeks to bridge its power deficit. They note that mini-grid systems, particularly solar-powered ones, offer a viable alternative to the national grid, especially in areas where power supply is unreliable.
Beyond addressing energy challenges, the project is also expected to create employment opportunities during its construction phase and provide hands-on learning opportunities for students in engineering and environmental sciences.
Stakeholders in the education sector have lauded the initiative, urging the government to replicate similar projects in other universities across the country. They argue that improved energy infrastructure is key to enhancing the quality of education and fostering innovation.
As preparations begin for the project’s rollout, expectations are high that the solar mini-grid will deliver long-term benefits, not only in ensuring uninterrupted power supply but also in advancing Nigeria’s transition toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
