By Erewunmi Peace

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a massive ₦145 billion electrification initiative targeting eight federal universities and one teaching hospital, in a move aimed at improving power supply across tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

The announcement was made today by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, following the FEC meeting chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja. The project, which falls under the Renewed Hope Agenda, will be implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

According to Adelabu, the approved funds will cover the installation of hybrid solar power infrastructure in selected institutions. The goal is to enhance energy reliability, boost research output, and improve the learning environment for both students and faculty.

“This investment in education and health infrastructure reflects the government’s commitment to a sustainable and inclusive energy future,” Adelabu stated.

The universities and hospital set to benefit from this project have not yet been publicly named, but the initiative is expected to be completed within seven to nine months. The ₦145 billion includes 7.5% VAT, and contractors are expected to begin mobilization immediately.

In a related development, the FEC also approved an additional ₦68.7 billion for solar mini-grid installations in agricultural and rural communities, aimed at enhancing productivity and improving quality of life in underserved areas.

The electrification project forms part of the Energizing Education Programme (EEP), a flagship government initiative designed to deliver clean and reliable power to campuses, reduce dependence on diesel generators, and foster innovation-driven learning environments.

Power supply in many Nigerian universities remains unstable, hindering academic progress, research, and healthcare delivery in teaching hospitals. Stakeholders have long called for targeted investments in renewable energy solutions to address these gaps.

With this approval, the Tinubu administration moves a step closer to fulfilling its promise of infrastructural development, youth empowerment, and sustainable energy.