Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu Tegbe, has commissioned a 3MW solar hybrid power plant at the University of Abuja, now renamed Yakubu Gowon University, delivering reliable electricity to 58,726 students and significantly reducing dependence on diesel generation.
The project, developed by the Rural Electrification Agency under Phase II of the Energising Education Programme, combines a 3.3MWp solar array with 3MW AC output and 2MWh battery storage, supported by grid supply outside solar hours.
Also read: GFF announces free medical screening in Sagamu
The Tegbe 3MW solar plant UniAbuja is designed to provide uninterrupted power across academic buildings, hostels and research facilities, while also lowering operational costs tied to diesel consumption.
Speaking at the commissioning, the minister described the initiative as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s human capital and a critical step towards strengthening the country’s education and energy sectors.
“Energising education also protects the investments already made in academic facilities and specialist equipment. It reduces the disruption that weakens research and makes learning more difficult,” Chief Adebayo Adelabu Tegbe said.
Chief Adebayo Adelabu Tegbe added that the benefits would extend beyond the campus through graduates whose skills would contribute to economic growth and innovation.
Beyond power generation, the project includes the installation of 388 solar-powered streetlights across the campus, enhancing security and extending safe study hours for students and staff.
Yakubu Gowon University is one of nine institutions covered under the second phase of the programme, which spans seven universities and two teaching hospitals.
The Federal Government has continued to expand the initiative as part of efforts to improve infrastructure in tertiary institutions nationwide.
The minister linked the development to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that investments in electricity are being directed towards sectors with direct impact on citizens’ welfare.
In a firm call, Chief Adebayo Adelabu Tegbe urged the university community to safeguard the facility, warning against vandalism of power infrastructure.
He disclosed that the ministry is developing a nationwide electricity complaints call centre to support rapid response and create employment opportunities for young Nigerians.
A joint security framework involving the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission is also being strengthened to curb vandalism across the power sector.
The Rural Electrification Agency reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the system, particularly the battery storage component, to ensure sustainability and long-term efficiency.
The commissioning ceremony attracted senior government officials, including representatives of the Federal Capital Territory and Ministry of Education, as well as development partners, university leadership, staff and students.
Also read: GFF announces free medical screening in Sagamu
Observers say the project represents a transformative shift towards clean energy in Nigeria’s tertiary education system, offering a reliable power model that could be replicated across institutions nationwide.
