Modibbo Adama University Yola’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Abdullahi Liman Tukur, has issued a cautionary statement, suggesting that many universities may soon struggle to maintain consistent electricity and water supplies for students and staff.
The vice chancellor, addressing a pre-convocation news conference on Tuesday at the university campus in Girei, near Yola, said the floating of the naira, withdrawal of fuel subsidies, and consequent hike in cost of energy have worsened economic challenges.
“The astronomical cost of providing basic essential services and utilities is having a big impact on the institution (MAU),” the VC lamented.
Emphasising the need for quick and huge interventions, he asserted that without such interventions, “most, if not all, universities might not be able to provide power and water.”.
He announced, however, that Modibbo Adama University, MAU, has gone far in efforts to establish solar power for use throughout the campus.
The VC explained that under a programme initiated by the Rural Electrification Agency, REA, as supported by the Africa Development Bank, AfDB, and other sponsors, the solar energy project for the MAU is set to take off.
He said the solar energy project is designed to provide alternative 24-hour solar power for the university.
“Dedicated land has been allocated for the construction of a solar panel farm as well as modalities on maintenance and sustenance of the projected five megawatts of electricity to be supplied,” he explained.
He added that the contract has since been awarded and handed over to contractors and consultants.
