The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) has begun the construction of a 1.72-megawatt solar power plant worth N3 billion as part of efforts to ensure sustainable energy supply across the institution.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, disclosed this during a news conference in Lokoja ahead of the university’s ninth convocation ceremony. He said the project, supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the World Bank under the Energising Education Programme, would significantly enhance the university’s energy independence and operational efficiency.
“This landmark project is a testament to the university’s commitment to environmental responsibility and operational self-reliance,” he said. “We strongly believe the 1.72-megawatt solar power system will enable the university to generate surplus electricity and achieve energy self-sufficiency, benefiting students and staff for generations to come.”
Professor Akinwumi noted that the initiative aligns with global efforts to promote clean and renewable energy. He explained that the project, when completed, would reduce the institution’s reliance on public electricity while supporting academic and administrative activities.
According to him, the solar power plant represents a major stride towards innovation, sustainability, and the broader goal of building an environmentally conscious university community.
Providing updates on the upcoming convocation, the Vice-Chancellor announced that 5,051 graduates from the 2024/2025 academic session would receive degrees and diplomas during the ceremony. The figure includes 3,466 undergraduates, 747 diploma holders, and 838 postgraduates.
Out of the graduating undergraduates, 35 obtained First Class honours, 760 earned Second Class Upper Division, 2,287 obtained Second Class Lower Division, 383 graduated with Third Class, while one student finished with a Pass.
Professor Akinwumi also highlighted key achievements recorded under his administration, noting that the institution had grown from a modest establishment into a multi-faculty university with expanded academic programmes and research capacity.
He stated that despite financial constraints, the university had completed or initiated 34 major infrastructural projects. These developments, he said, were part of ongoing efforts to provide a conducive learning and research environment.
The Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation to the governing council, management, staff, students, and institutional partners for their support and cooperation. He also commended the media for their role in promoting the university’s visibility and progress.
He called on members of the university community and stakeholders to continue supporting FUL’s development agenda, stressing that the institution’s transformation story reflects a shared commitment to education, innovation, and excellence.
The ninth convocation ceremony is scheduled for October 18, 2025, and will feature a week-long series of events celebrating scholarship, service, and academic achievement.
