TINUBU UNVEILS PLAN TO INSTALL SOLAR PANELS IN PUBLIC HIGHER INSTITUTIONS ACROSS NIGERIA
President Bola Tinubu has announced plans to install solar panels in public higher institutions across Nigeria, aiming to mitigate the financial strain caused by high electricity tariffs imposed by power distribution companies. This move is part of the administration’s efforts to prioritize education and address the long-standing concerns of universities over escalating power costs. Speaking at the 55th convocation ceremony of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education. “My administration recognizes that education is the cornerstone of national development. It is the bedrock upon which a prosperous society is built. This understanding is reflected in our policies and investments in the education sector,” he stated. The proposed 2025 budget allocates ₦3.52 trillion to education, the third-highest allocation, underscoring efforts to revitalize the sector. Tinubu noted, “The ‘Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity’ reflects our determination to stabilize the economy, improve lives, and position Nigeria for a brighter future.” The administration has also introduced key reforms, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has expanded access to higher education by easing financial barriers for students. Thousands have already benefited, with plans to extend the initiative to reach more students. Furthermore, Tinubu has approved N100 billion to provide solar-powered energy to public institutions as part of the 2025 fiscal year agenda. This initiative is expected to reduce the cost of governance and provide a sustainable source of energy for public institutions.