UNILORIN VC Decries Unsustainable N230 Million Monthly Electricity Bill Amid Tariff Hike"

Professor Wahab Egbewole, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, has raised concerns over the institution's skyrocketing monthly electricity bill, surging from N70 million to N230 million.

Jun 10, 2024 - 19:39

UNILORIN VC Decries Unsustainable N230 Million Monthly Electricity Bill Amid Tariff Hike"

The University of Ilorin is grappling with a financial quandary as its monthly electricity bill surges from N70 million to a staggering N230 million. Professor Wahab Egbewole, the esteemed Vice-Chancellor of the institution, sounded the alarm in a recent communication to university staff and students, drawing attention to the adverse repercussions of the exorbitant electricity tariff hike imposed by the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).

Expressing deep concern over the unsustainable escalation in utility costs, Egbewole emphasized the urgent need for a critical reevaluation of the university's current electricity consumption patterns. In his message, he urged both faculty members and students to cultivate more responsible energy usage habits and lend their support to the administration's endeavors to implement cost-saving measures.

The unprecedented spike in electricity expenses has placed a considerable strain on the university's financial resources, prompting the management to intensify efforts in exploring alternative power supply options. Negotiations for viable alternatives are underway, with plans to incorporate provisions for alternative power sources into ongoing construction projects across several faculties, including Agriculture, Arts, Environmental Science, Law, and Social Sciences.

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Furthermore, strategies are being devised to ensure that all academic units and facilities are equipped with reliable alternative power solutions, aiming to alleviate the burden imposed by the exorbitant electricity tariffs. Egbewole also underscored the imperative of safeguarding the newly constructed facilities against potential threats such as theft and vandalism, emphasizing the importance of their protection and maintenance to sustain the university's academic infrastructure.

The Vice-Chancellor's remarks shed light on the pressing financial challenges faced by the University of Ilorin amidst the regulatory changes in the energy sector. As the institution navigates these turbulent waters, concerted efforts are underway to mitigate the financial strain and uphold the university's commitment to academic excellence and sustainable development.