The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, has commissioned a 3MW captive solar hybrid power project at Yakubu Gowon University, formerly the University of Abuja, to provide stable and cleaner electricity to the institution’s 58,726 students.

The project, developed by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) under Phase II of the Energizing Education Programme (EEP), comprises a 3.3MWp solar array, 3MW AC output and 2MWh battery storage system. It is also supported by dedicated grid supply outside solar generation hours.

Commissioning the facility in Abuja on Wednesday, Tegbe said the project would help reduce the university’s dependence on diesel generators, lower electricity costs and protect academic facilities and specialised equipment. He added that reliable power would also minimise disruptions to research and learning while supporting the development of skilled graduates.

‎The minister said the project aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its efforts to direct electricity investments towards sectors that have a direct impact on citizens’ lives. He noted that Yakubu Gowon University is one of nine institutions benefiting from Phase II of the EEP, comprising seven universities and two teaching hospitals.

The project also includes the installation of 388 streetlights across the university campus, which the ministry said would improve security and provide safer conditions for students and staff to study and move around the institution after dark.

‎Tegbe urged students and staff to protect the infrastructure by reporting vandalism of the solar system and other electricity assets, including transformers and transmission towers.

He disclosed that the ministry was developing a nationwide electricity complaints call centre, as well as a dedicated channel for reporting vandalism, while a joint team comprising the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission is working to curb attacks on electricity infrastructure.

‎The minister commended the REA Board, chaired by Ayodele Fayose, the agency’s management led by Abba Abubakar Aliyu, the Nigeria Electrification Programme team and the project contractor for delivering the facility.

He also acknowledged the support of the World Bank, Ministry of Education, FCT Administration and university management, while REA committed to sustaining the battery storage system to support the university’s electricity needs and eliminate reliance on diesel generators.