FG Commends Azura Power for Donating 240kw Solar Car Park to UNN

The Federal Government has lauded Azura Power West Africa Limited for its donation of a 240kw Solar Car Park to the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). The solar facility, valued at N900 million, is set to enhance the university’s energy supply, providing a reliable, sustainable power source to support education, research, and teaching in the faculty.

During the inauguration and handover ceremony held on Wednesday in Nsukka, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, praised the initiative as a vital contribution to Nigeria’s energy transition goals and sustainable development. He emphasized the critical role energy plays in fostering development, particularly in sectors like education, healthcare, and industry.

“The importance of ensuring that our institutions have access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy cannot be overstated,” said Adelabu. “This project is a significant step towards our aspirations for sustainable energy development and will play a key role in enhancing the university's capacity while contributing to the environmental sustainability agenda of our nation.”

The Minister commended Azura Power for its commitment to providing clean, uninterrupted energy that will significantly improve academic and research activities within the Faculty of Engineering. He further highlighted the environmental benefits of the solar-powered car park, which aligns with the country's goals for a greener energy future.

Azura Power, known for its dedication to corporate social responsibility, was also praised for its contribution to renewable energy development in Nigeria. Adelabu also acknowledged Crimeng Services Limited, the contractor responsible for the project, for delivering the facility to specifications and on schedule.

In his remarks, Mr. Ekundayo Ibeun, Managing Director of Crimeng Services, emphasized the company’s track record in energy provision and its commitment to quality and innovation. He assured that the solar car park was built with indigenous content and global technological applications. Additionally, Ibeun revealed that the company would provide training for UNN staff to maintain the facility after the two-year warranty period.

Mr. Edu Okeke, Managing Director of Azura Power and an alumnus of UNN’s Faculty of Engineering, shared that the donation is part of the company’s initiative to support sustainable livelihoods and infrastructure. Okeke revealed that Azura Power allocates $1 million annually to fund projects in education, health, and infrastructure. He noted that the solar car park would generate over 400,000 kWh of clean energy annually, ensuring a steady power supply to enhance the university's educational activities.

Okeke urged other alumni and corporate organizations to contribute to their alma mater, helping to create an environment that allows staff and students to focus on education and empowerment.

UNN’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Polycarp Chigbu, represented by Prof. Romanus Ezeokonkwo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, expressed the university’s gratitude, noting that the donation would alleviate the long-standing electricity supply challenges faced by the institution. He hoped other faculties at UNN would receive similar interventions.

Prof. Ikechukwu Ezema, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, also highlighted the impact of the solar car park, stating that it would not only power classrooms and offices but also serve as a training facility for students in solar installation and data analysis.

With this donation, Azura Power continues to lead the way in promoting renewable energy solutions in Nigeria, fostering educational development, and supporting the nation’s sustainable energy future.