ECN Approves Major Solar Energy Intervention for Northwest University Kano

Northwest University Kano (NWUK) has secured significant support from the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) following a strategic visit by the University's leadership to the Commission's headquarters in Abuja.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Amina Salihi Bayero, led a delegation comprising members of the University Management and Governing Council on Wednesday, 24th June 2026, to meet with the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Engineer Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, who received the team alongside members of the Commission's management.

Addressing the gathering, Professor Amina Salihi Bayero described the visit as a demonstration of the University's commitment to strengthening its relationship with the Commission. She informed the Director-General that the delegation included key members of the University's Management and Governing Council, highlighting the significance attached to the engagement.

The Vice-Chancellor identified inadequate power supply as one of the major challenges facing the University and expressed appreciation for previous interventions by the Commission. She explained that the visit was intended to strengthen existing collaboration, appreciate the Commission's support, follow up on ongoing interventions, and formally request additional assistance through a submission made to the Commission.

Responding, Engineer Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi welcomed the delegation and assured the University of the Commission's continued support.

In a remarkable statement, the Director-General affirmed that "nobody comes to the Energy Commission of Nigeria without leaving with something, and Northwest University Kano will not be an exception."

He disclosed that the Federal Government's programme on solarization of higher institutions was already underway and revealed that NWUK had been captured among the first batch of beneficiary institutions. A 1-Megawatt Solar Grid for the University's City Campus has been approved. He further explained that the Commission's vision is to promote sustainable campuses across the country through renewable energy solutions.

As part of the intervention, the Commission directed the immediate deployment of solar-powered streetlights to the University's Main Campus and solar energy facilities for the City Campus. The Director-General also directed that a joint committee be constituted immediately to facilitate implementation and ensure timely deployment of the approved projects.

This intervention is expected to complement the ongoing support from TETFund, which has already commenced the deployment of tools and facilities for mini solar grid projects at the University's Main Campus.

Engineer Abdullahi stressed the importance of establishing a long-term partnership between ECN and NWUK in the area of energy research and sustainable development.

"This is only the beginning. We are not only interested in talking; we believe in talking and doing," he assured.

In recognition of his exceptional support for higher education and sustainable energy development, the University presented the Director-General with an Award of Excellence. He was also decorated with a commemorative medal by the University Registrar, Dr. Isyaku Adamu.

The visit highlights Northwest University Kano's commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships that support infrastructural development, sustainability, and academic advancement.