TETFund Unveils Alternative Energy Initiative to Address Power Deficit in Nigeria’s Tertiary Institutions

In a bold move to tackle the persistent power crisis plaguing Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has announced the introduction of a Special Intervention program aimed at providing alternative energy solutions to universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

Hon. Aminu Masari, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of TETFund, disclosed this development on Wednesday while inaugurating the steering committee for the Alternative Energy Solution Initiative. The initiative, he stated, aligns with the government’s broader efforts to ensure a stable and sustainable power supply in educational institutions across the country.

The Chairman, a former governor of Katsina State, emphasized the critical role of electricity in fostering an enabling environment for learning and research, pointing out that the erratic power supply has significantly hindered academic excellence.

“We all understand that several factors contribute to the energy crisis in our tertiary institutions. The rising electricity tariffs, financial constraints, and aging infrastructure have made it nearly impossible for these institutions to maintain a steady power supply. This intervention seeks to provide a long-term solution to these challenges,” Masari stated.

Hon. Sunday Adepoju, is to lead the committee, and has been tasked with submitting a preliminary report within two months. It will also play an integral role in the implementation of the proposed energy solutions.

The Federal Government has, in the past, attempted to mitigate power shortages through initiatives such as the Rural Electrification Agency’s (REA) plan to install captive solar hybrid power plants in 15 federal tertiary institutions and two teaching hospitals. However, widespread implementation has remained a challenge due to bureaucratic bottlenecks and funding limitations.

Solar energy, in particular, presents an optimal solution for addressing the power deficit in Nigeria’s academic institutions. With the country receiving an average of 5.5 kWh/m² of solar radiation daily, leveraging this resource can provide a sustainable and cost-effective energy source for universities and colleges. Unlike fossil fuel-powered generators, which are expensive to maintain and contribute to environmental pollution, solar energy offers a cleaner, renewable, and long-term solution to power shortages.

By investing in solar power infrastructure, Nigeria can significantly enhance the quality of education. Reliable electricity will allow students to access digital learning resources, conduct research, and develop technical skills necessary for national development. Moreover, institutions can save on exorbitant electricity bills and reinvest those funds into academic programs, infrastructure development, and research initiatives.

While power supply is essential, it is only one part of the broader issue facing Nigeria’s tertiary education sector. The lack of adequate funding, outdated learning facilities, and insufficient research grants remain major obstacles to producing globally competitive graduates. Addressing the energy deficit must go hand in hand with increased investment in education, faculty training, and modern learning technologies.

Countries like South Africa and Ghana have successfully integrated solar power into their educational institutions, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. Nigeria must adopt a similar approach, ensuring that power solutions are complemented by broader educational reforms.

The success of TETFund’s Alternative Energy Initiative will largely depend on government commitment, stakeholder collaboration, and the efficient deployment of resources. If properly executed, it could mark a transformative shift in Nigeria’s education system, bridging the gap between energy security and academic excellence.