Collaboration between Nigeria and Germany is under way for the construction of off-grid solar power plants for the University of Ibadan and the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.The ground-breaking ceremony for the solar power plant is to take place before the end of next month in Ibadan.
Education Minister, Malam Adamu Adamu made the disclosure today in his office in Abuja when he played host to German Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Mr. Michael Zenner.
Speaking through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. (Mrs) Folasade Yemi-Esan, who received the Ambassador on behalf of the Minister, Malam Adamu hinted that the University of Ibadan and Ahmadu Bello University Solar power plants will serve as pilot projects, and if successful, will be replicated in all other Federal Universities in the country.
The Minister promised to render all necessary assistance to ensure the success of the projects
Speaking earlier, the German Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Mr. Michael Zenner, who was led to the Ministry by the Vice Chancellor of University of Ibadan, Professor Idowu Olayinka, told the Minister that the projects will not only provide electricity to the University community, but will also facilitate the training of young engineers on renewable energy technology.
Mr. Zenner pointed out that “the project is very important because the University will become independent from other power sources, the money saved can be used for research, etc.”
He remarked that there has been an energy partnership between Germany and Nigeria since 2008.
Ben Bem Goong
Deputy Director (Press)
