Federal Government Initiates Construction of Solar Electricity Farm at FUTA
The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated the construction of a solar electricity farm at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) under the Energizing Education Programme Initiative.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Federal Government of Nigeria has embarked on the construction of a solar electricity farm aimed at enhancing power supply and revenue generation at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA). The commencement of the construction process was formalized on Friday, February 23, 2024, with the official handover of the site to the National Universities Commission (NUC) as part of the Energizing Education Programme Initiative initiated by the Federal Government in 2016. FUTA is part of Phase 2 of this initiative.
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The scope of work for FUTA under the programme includes the installation of a 4.5MWdc capacity solar hybrid power plant, the construction and furnishing of a world-class WTC (Wireless Telecommunications Company), upgrading of the distribution network, provision of new street lighting, implementation of advanced metering infrastructure, and provision of training for students and technical staff on renewable energy technologies.
Speaking at the handing-over ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Professor Taiwo Amos, described the initiative as a significant stride in the development of critical infrastructure for the university. Emphasizing FUTA's commitment to excellence, Professor Oladiji assured that the project would be diligently executed with the support of the university's Project Monitoring Committee.
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Engr. Folorunsho Boyinbode, Director of the Physical Planning Unit (PPU) at FUTA, emphasized that the construction of the solar electricity farm marks a milestone in the university's history. He assured that professionals are fully engaged and committed to delivering the project efficiently within the stipulated time frame, thus ensuring sustainable energy provision for FUTA and its surroundings.
NUC representative, Engr. Prosper Esume, commended FUTA for its cooperation since the inception of the project and expressed confidence that the university would soon join the ranks of institutions with sufficient power supply to facilitate their operations effectively.
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The solar electricity farm project at FUTA underscores the government's commitment to promoting renewable energy and advancing sustainable development in the country's educational sector.
