Professor Abdullahi Liman Tukur, Vice Chancellor of Modibbo Adama University (MAU), has sounded the alarm that most universities in Nigeria may soon be unable to provide electricity and water for their students and staff due to worsening economic challenges.
Addressing a pre-convocation news conference on Tuesday at the university campus in Girei, near Yola, the VC attributed the looming crisis to the floating of the Naira, withdrawal of fuel subsidy, and the consequent hike in energy costs.
He lamented that the astronomical cost of providing basic essential services and utilities is having a significant impact on the institution.
However, Professor Tukur announced that MAU has made significant progress in efforts to establish solar power for use throughout the campus. Under a program initiated by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), supported by the Africa Development Bank (AfDB) and other sponsors, the solar energy project is set to take off.
The project aims to provide alternative 24-hour solar power for the university, with a dedicated land allocated for the construction of a solar panel farm and modalities in place for maintenance and sustenance of the projected five megawatts of electricity to be supplied. The contract has been awarded, and the site has been handed over to contractors and consultants.
The VC emphasized the need for quick and huge interventions to address the challenges facing universities, warning that without such interventions, most universities might not be able to provide power and water for their students and staff.
