The Federal Government has approved a N300 billion allocation to provide stable electricity supply to teaching hospitals and universities across Nigeria through renewable energy systems. This initiative was announced by Abubakar Bichi, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, during the unveiling of a solar hybrid intervention project at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH) in Kano .
Bichi stated that this project is part of President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to addressing persistent power outages in critical sectors such as healthcare and education. The allocation will fund the installation of solar hybrid systems, with priority given to institutions delivering essential services. The goal is to ensure uninterrupted power supply, enabling hospitals to save lives and universities to support uninterrupted academic activities .
The initiative follows appeals from Chief Medical Directors of teaching hospitals, who highlighted the enormous financial burden of powering critical health facilities. For instance, some institutions spend up to N200 million monthly on electricity and diesel . The government believes that switching to renewable energy will reduce operational costs, improve efficiency, and promote clean energy adoption .
Specific beneficiaries include Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, which is set to receive 6–7 MW of solar power, and Bayero University Kano, allocated 5–6 MW. Due to Kano’s large population, state-owned facilities like Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital and Nasarawa Hospital will also receive federal support .
The Energy Commission of Nigeria will collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure timely implementation of the projects. Bichi commended the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, for his leadership in translating the government’s vision into action .
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to combat energy poverty, which affects millions of Nigerians and hampers economic growth, healthcare, and education . By investing in renewable energy, the government aims to create a sustainable and efficient energy framework for the nation’s critical public institutions.
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