…Boosts research capacity
The Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil (ADUSTECH) has taken a major step towards energy independence with the inauguration of a 2-megawatt solar mini-grid valued at about N3.8 billion, a project expected to significantly reduce power cost and strengthen research output.
Musa Tukur Yakasai, Vice-Chancellor of the University, inaugurating the project, on Friday, said that the project marked a turning point in the University’s quest for sustainable energy and academic excellence.
He described the solar installation as the single largest project received by the institution since its establishment 25 years ago, noting that it would provide stable electricity for teaching, research, and campus operations.
The project was facilitated by the Energy Commission of Nigeria under the leadership of its Director-General, Mustapha Abdullahi, whose interventions in the university extend beyond the mini-grid.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, the Commission had earlier installed 200 solar-powered streetlights across the campus and pledged an additional 200 units to improve security and sustainability.
He added that ADUSTECH had also benefited from capacity-building initiatives, including a “Train-the-Trainer” Programme on the Nigeria Energy Calculator (NECAL 2050), which is expected to position staff at the forefront of national energy planning and policy development.
Yakasai further disclosed that discussions are ongoing to establish a Centre of Excellence for Renewable Energy Research in collaboration with the Commission and other stakeholders, including Abubakar Kabir Abubakar.
The University is also exploring clean energy solutions such as biomass briquette production, in line with the Federal Government’s clean cooking policy championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In recognition of Abdullahi’s contributions, the University announced the renaming of its Faculty of Engineering Complex after him, following approval by the Governing Council chaired by Abdu Aboki.
The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the role of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology in facilitating the project, expressing optimism that further support would be secured for the proposed research centre.
He revealed that the university’s Chancellor, Aliko Dangote, had committed N15 billion for various development projects over the next three years, signaling increased private sector backing for infrastructure and innovation.
Yakasai called on Alumni and stakeholders to contribute to the institution’s growth, stressing that the solar mini-grid represents not just an infrastructure upgrade but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy.
“This project will power not only our campus but also our aspirations for a brighter, more sustainable future,” he said.
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