The Federal Executive Council has approved electrification projects worth ₦213.7 billion to power federal universities, teaching hospitals and rural communities across Nigeria.
The projects, approved under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will be executed by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA). They are aimed at delivering sustainable and reliable electricity to critical sectors of the country, in line with the president’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Out of the total sum, ₦145 billion has been earmarked for the Energising Education Programme, which will provide solar-hybrid power supply systems to selected federal universities and their teaching hospitals. Institutions expected to benefit include the University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, University of Nigeria Nsukka, University of Ibadan and University College Hospital Ibadan, as well as the Federal University Wukari in Taraba State.
The second component of the electrification effort targets rural communities and agro-based clusters. The Federal Government approved ₦68.7 billion for the development of standalone solar power systems in rural areas and Agricultural Centres of Excellence. The project aims to boost agro-processing, reduce post-harvest losses and improve livelihoods in underserved communities.
The electrification projects are expected to be delivered between three to nine months, depending on location and scale. According to the Ministry of Power, the initiative will reduce reliance on diesel generators, cut costs and contribute to Nigeria’s energy transition goals.
This development marks a significant step in improving access to electricity for learning institutions, health centres and rural populations, and underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to advancing national infrastructure and human capital development.