All tertiary institutions to get mini-grids by 2026: FG
The federal government, on Wednesday in Lagos, assured Nigerians of its plan to make all tertiary institutions across the nation self-sufficient in energy by 2026 through the installation of mini-grids.
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, gave this assurance during the commissioning of the newly completed Olatunji Bello Auditorium at the Lagos State University (LASU), Epe Campus.
The auditorium was donated by Olatunji Bello, a former Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and husband to the Vice Chancellor of LASU, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello.
Mr Alausa stated that the provision of mini-grids forms part of President Bola Tinubu’s pledge to students, universities, and other higher institutions.
“By this time next year, literally all tertiary institutions in the country will have mini-grids that will make them energy sufficient.
“With energy sufficiency, we would unleash the capabilities of our youths in the area of research, technology and everything they do.
“Join me in thanking President Tinubu for his commitment to education development,” he said.
Mr Alausa mentioned that a five-megawatt mini-grid had already been approved for LASU’s Epe Campus.
The minister commended Mr Bello for constructing the 550-seat state-of-the-art auditorium, describing it as a symbol of how dedicated Nigerians can contribute to shaping institutions and motivating future generations.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, who officially opened the auditorium, lauded Mr Bello for honouring his promise to support education.
“This edifice is more than a building; it is a beacon of knowledge, creativity, cultural exchange and intellectual engagement,” Mr Sanwo-Olu said.
Mr Sanwo-Olu revealed that within the next 60 days, his administration would commission the largest university library in Nigeria, located at LASU’s Ojo Campus.
He added that the library would be inaugurated alongside other key facilities.
“We remain resolute in our commitment to strengthening LASU’s place as Nigeria’s foremost state university. With projects such as these, our vision of a globally competitive institution is within reach,” he added.
In his goodwill message, former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba described Mr Bello’s contribution as an act of gratitude and altruism.
He pointed out that while many Nigerians spend large sums on lavish birthday celebrations, Mr Bello chose instead to direct resources towards a project that benefits the education sector and wider society.
Mr Osoba described Mr Bello as a man of integrity who has consistently dedicated himself to public service and educational advancement.
In his speech, Mr Bello explained that the project was his way of investing in future generations.
“The government alone cannot do it. Private individuals who have the means should invest in public tertiary education to create more opportunities.
“When God gives you a vision, God will also provide the means in miraculous ways. God’s miracle, sometimes, comes by having some brilliant ideas suddenly deposited in your mind,” he said.
He shared that the construction of the auditorium began in 2021, supported by his friends, who chose to convert their planned birthday gifts into monetary contributions for the project.
Mr Bello affirmed his dedication to the project, revealing that he even sold personal property to see it through to completion. He encouraged LASU students to make full use of the new facility.
Earlier, Mrs Olatunji-Bello noted that the auditorium represented more than just architectural design.
“It is a strategic investment in academic excellence and institutional identity. It reinforces the fundamental truth that when we invest in education, we invest in tomorrow’s leaders.
“Bello has, through word and deed, inscribed his name in the permanent record of LASU’s growth story. This is making infrastructure available and accessible for seamless academic and administrative operations,” she said.
She stated that her leadership had strategically improved and expanded infrastructure on LASU’s Epe campus.
“This includes construction of Iraye Gate House, completion of the first phase of comprehensive fencing and proper demarcation between the campus and the adjoining Nigerian Army Barracks.”
She expressed her gratitude to her husband for donating the auditorium and assured him that the facility would be well-used, properly maintained, and deeply valued.
