Maiduguri Varsity Set To Generate 12MW Of Electricity Through Solar Power Project -

The University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) is set to generate 12 megawatts of electricity through its solar power project, according to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aliyu Shugaba.

Speaking during an interactive session with journalists on Friday, Shugaba revealed that the project, being executed under the Federal Government’s Energizing Education Programme (EEP), has reached an advanced stage and is expected to be completed in July.

The 12 megawatts will be shared with the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), with UNIMAID receiving seven megawatts and UMTH receiving five megawatts.

Shugaba noted that the seven megawatts allocated to UNIMAID is more than the university’s needs, and excess energy will be considered for sale to the Borno Government or interested parties.

Shugaba, whose five-year tenure as vice chancellor would end on June 3, said despite the challenges of insurgency and COVID-19 recorded during his tenure, some major achievements such as construction and rehabilitation of roads and drainage were recorded.

“Others include construction of Centre for Countering Violent Extremism, rehabilitation of more than 75 houses (staff quarters), drilled and reticulated 12 mini tube-wells to address water shortage and fortification of security apparatus around the campus by installing various security surveillance equipment and procurement of patrol vehicles,” Shugaba said.

He also listed projects donated to the University by some organizations and philanthropists such as the Muhammadu Indimi Centre for International Learning, Abdul Samad Rabiu International Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Civil Engineering materials Strength Testing Laboratories donated by Abubakar Isa, and 70 staff quarters donated by the Borno Government.

“Others are Auditorium donated by North East Development Commission, 250-capacity Virtual Examination Centre donated by NCC, Department of Petroleum and Gas Engineering and 500-seater lecture Theatre for faculty of Engineering donated by NNPC, ” Shugaba said.

The outgoing vice chancellor urged his successor to operate an open door policy and accommodate everyone including critics to be able to deliver.

He thanked management and staff of the university for their support and cooperation in achievements recorded, and urged for similar support for his successor.