The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has approved a nationwide audit of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to check compliance with the enhanced entry-point policy for engineers in the public service.

The council also plans to renew discussions with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) on the implementation of the policy.

COREN reached the decisions during its 190th Ordinary Council Meeting in Abuja.

COREN Steps Up Regulatory Enforcement

COREN Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Okorie Uche, announced the decisions on Thursday.

Uche said the council would strengthen compliance and enforcement across the engineering profession. The measures will focus on professional standards, technical skills, regulation and public safety.

He said COREN wants engineering professionals and firms to meet established regulatory requirements.

The council also approved the registration of 2,001 engineering practitioners.

The new registrants include 1,410 engineers, 227 engineering technologists and 15 engineering technicians. The list also contains 334 engineering craftsmen and 15 expatriate practitioners.

COREN also approved 33 engineering firms for registration across different areas of engineering practice.

Renewable Energy Certification Gets Attention

The council approved full accreditation for some firms under its Renewable Energy (RE) and Energy Efficiency (EE) Certification Scheme.

COREN runs the scheme in partnership with the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP).

The initiative aims to improve professional capacity and promote standards in renewable energy and energy efficiency.

The council also reviewed certification examination results from seven training centres. A total of 478 candidates took the examinations, while 177 candidates passed.

COREN then directed Enerplaz Paygo Solutions in Port Harcourt to adopt the COREN/NESP-approved Solar Photovoltaic Installation Training Curriculum.

Stronger Response to Engineering Failures

The council also considered the problem of recurring engineering failures and building collapses.

COREN approved measures to strengthen its regulatory intervention and enforcement activities. The council said the measures would help it respond more effectively to breaches that could put lives and property at risk.

The new approach includes a competency development programme for Engineering Regulation Inspection Officers.

COREN also approved a wider regulatory strategy. The plan includes a nationwide public awareness campaign and an integrated digital compliance and verification platform.

Other measures include mandatory COREN compliance for engineering procurement and approvals. The council also plans to strengthen Engineering Compliance Inspectorate Units.

National Engineering Practice Database Planned

COREN plans to establish a National Engineering Practice Database.

The database will support the monitoring, verification and regulation of engineering activities across Nigeria.

The council also intends to work more closely with relevant government agencies. It will enforce stricter compliance with annual practising licence requirements.

The move could give regulators better information about engineering professionals and firms operating across the country.

COREN to Regulate Engineering Artisans

The council also approved the automation of registration for engineering artisans and Skills Training Centres through the COREN Portal.

It further approved measures to strengthen the recognition and regulation of engineering craftsmen.

COREN will collaborate with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) to develop National Occupational Standards for several technical occupations.

These occupations include bicycle mechanics, GSM phone repairs, satellite installation, tractor operation and maintenance, motor body building and transmission repairs.

The move is aimed at improving technical skills and creating clearer standards for different engineering-related occupations.

New Framework for Engineering Education

COREN also approved the implementation of the National Engineering Admission Quota and Carrying Capacity Enforcement Framework.

The framework will support quality assurance in engineering education. It will also help ensure that engineering programmes at Nigerian universities remain within approved capacity and standards.

The council further approved revised Terms of Reference for its Codes and Standards Committee.

The committee will focus on developing, reviewing, promoting and monitoring engineering codes and standards.

COREN Approves Engineering Fee Scale

The council approved the adoption of the Engineering Sliding Scale of Fees in Nigeria (ESSOFIN).

COREN also plans to hold regional stakeholder engagement workshops before the end of 2026.

The workshops will allow practitioners, government institutions and other industry stakeholders to discuss the new measures. They are also expected to support consultation, consensus-building and wider acceptance of the initiatives.

The nationwide MDA audit and other regulatory measures come as COREN seeks to strengthen oversight of engineering practice in Nigeria. Effective enforcement of professional standards remains important to the safety and quality of buildings, infrastructure and other engineering projects across the country.

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The Federal Government has expanded Nigeria’s renewable energy programme with the rollout of 60.82 megawatts (MW) of mini-grid projects, reinforcing efforts to improve electricity access for underserved communities while supporting economic growth and sustainable development. The initiative forms part of the country’s broader strategy to increase clean energy adoption and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. (punchng.com)

The projects are being implemented through the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in partnership with development partners and private sector investors. The mini-grid programme is designed to provide reliable electricity to homes, schools, healthcare facilities, markets, and small businesses located in communities that are either off the national grid or receive limited power supply. (punchng.com)

According to the REA, the latest rollout will improve access to affordable and sustainable electricity for thousands of Nigerians while stimulating local economic activities. Reliable electricity is expected to support businesses, improve healthcare delivery, enhance educational outcomes, and create employment opportunities in beneficiary communities.

The agency explained that renewable mini-grids have become an important component of Nigeria’s energy transition strategy because they can be deployed more quickly and cost-effectively than extending the national transmission grid to remote areas. Solar-powered systems, battery storage, and other clean energy technologies are expected to play a growing role in meeting the country’s increasing electricity demand.

Government officials noted that expanding renewable energy infrastructure will also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting cleaner sources of power generation. The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to increasing energy access while supporting global climate and sustainable development goals.

Energy experts say mini-grids are becoming an increasingly important solution for addressing Nigeria’s electricity deficit, particularly in rural communities where grid expansion remains economically challenging. They note that reliable power supply can improve productivity, encourage investment, strengthen local industries, and support housing development through access to modern infrastructure.

Stakeholders also believe that continued collaboration between government, development finance institutions, and private investors will be essential to scaling renewable energy projects nationwide. They argue that sustained investment in decentralised energy systems will help improve electricity reliability, enhance economic resilience, and accelerate inclusive development across Nigeria.

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Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mohammed Bago, has officially handed over 500 hectares of land to Abuja Steel Mills Limited for the development of a large-scale Solar Farm and the AIG Industrial Park, a move expected to accelerate industrialisation, attract investments, and create thousands of jobs in the state.

The handover took place during a groundbreaking ceremony held in Sabon Wuse, Tafa Local Government Area, where government officials, investors, and industry stakeholders gathered to mark the commencement of the project.

Bago: Project Will Transform Niger State’s Economy

Speaking at the event, Governor Bago described the initiative as a landmark investment that would significantly reshape the economic and industrial landscape of Niger State.

According to him, the project reflects the state’s commitment to becoming a leading destination for investment and sustainable economic growth.

“What we are witnessing today is more than a ceremony. It is a clear declaration of our commitment to transforming Niger State into a preferred investment destination and building a New Niger that delivers opportunities for our people,” Bago said.

The governor noted that the project would leverage the state’s strategic advantages, including access to gas resources from the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Pipeline, vast land resources, and existing power infrastructure.

He highlighted Niger State’s status as home to four major hydropower stations—Kainji, Jebba, Zungeru, and Shiroro Dams—which provide a strong foundation for industrial expansion and renewable energy development.

Bago also commended the management of Abuja Steel Mills and its parent company, African Industries Group (AIG), for choosing Niger State as the location for the ambitious project.

AIG Chairman Describes Land Allocation as Historic

The Group Chairman of African Industries Group, Raj Gupta, described the allocation of 500 hectares as a historic milestone that goes beyond industrial development.

According to Gupta, the project is designed to drive economic empowerment, community development, and employment generation.

“This is not just an opportunity to build industries and create jobs. It is about development, upliftment, and empowering people,” he stated.

He revealed that the proposed solar farm is expected to become the largest solar power installation in Sub-Saharan Africa, further positioning Nigeria as a major player in renewable energy and steel production.

“This project will put Nigeria not only on the global steel map but also on the renewable energy map,” Gupta added.

Power Minister Hails Bago’s Industrial Vision

Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, praised Governor Bago for demonstrating what he described as “industrial statesmanship” through the allocation of land for the project.

Tegbe said the initiative would serve as a lasting legacy by attracting significant private-sector investments and stimulating economic activities in Niger State.

“The most enduring legacy of governance is not just physical infrastructure but the industries, investments, and jobs created through strategic decisions,” he said.

The minister assured investors of the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing challenges within the power sector to support industrial growth nationwide.

Steel Development Minister Applauds Investment

Also speaking, Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar, commended the governor’s foresight in making the land available for industrial use.

He praised Raj Gupta for transforming African Industries Group into one of the largest steel manufacturers in Nigeria and West Africa.

According to him, the company has grown from a small enterprise into a major industrial player employing over 10,000 workers and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s steel sector.

Abubakar expressed confidence that the solar farm and industrial park would revolutionise industrial development in Niger State while supporting President Bola Tinubu’s economic growth agenda.

Project Expected to Boost Jobs and Productivity

Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Enoh, described the project as a major catalyst for industrialisation and productivity.

He noted that the planned solar farm and industrial park would create new employment opportunities, reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported industrial products, and strengthen local manufacturing capacity.

“The missing link in our economy is productivity. Projects like this create jobs, stimulate industrial growth, and reduce the nation’s import burden,” Enoh said.

The minister added that collaboration between government and private investors remains essential to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and driving sustainable development.

Industrial Hub Set to Drive Economic Growth

The 500-hectare allocation is expected to pave the way for the establishment of one of Nigeria’s largest renewable energy and industrial infrastructure projects.

Stakeholders believe the development will attract additional investments into Niger State, expand manufacturing activities, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in both the steel and renewable energy sectors.

With construction activities set to commence, the Solar Farm and AIG Industrial Park are projected to become key drivers of industrial transformation and economic growth in the North-Central region and across Nigeria.

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The Katsina State Government, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has commissioned a series of development projects aimed at strengthening climate resilience, promoting peace, restoring livelihoods and supporting internally displaced persons across the state.

The projects include 152 housing units for internally displaced persons (IDPs), a Climate Peace Hub, a rehabilitated cattle market and a solar mini-grid energy system designed to expand access to clean and reliable electricity.

The interventions were unveiled during a commissioning ceremony attended by government officials, development partners, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations, youth and women groups, private sector representatives and members of the media.

Speaking at the event, Governor Dikko Umar Radda reaffirmed the state’s commitment to working with development partners to address insecurity, climate challenges and economic vulnerability.

“Katsina State stands ready to deepen that partnership. We will continue to work hand in hand with UNDP, GIZ, the Norwegian Government and every partner committed to human dignity to address the underlying drivers of insecurity, expand livelihoods, build climate resilience and empower our women and youth,” the governor said.

The projects are being implemented under UNDP’s integrated development framework, which combines peacebuilding, climate resilience, governance, energy access and economic recovery initiatives to deliver sustainable development outcomes.

The Mass Housing Project, delivered under the Prevention Facility Project, provides permanent housing solutions for vulnerable and conflict-affected families, helping to improve living conditions and support community recovery.

Speaking during the commissioning, UNDP Nigeria Resident Representative, Elsie G. Attafuah, said the investments were designed to address the root causes of instability while creating opportunities for affected communities.

“The 152 housing units provide more than shelter. They provide dignity, stability and a place that families can once again call home. The rehabilitated cattle market and veterinary clinic help restore livelihoods and support local economic activity,” she said.

Attafuah added that the Climate Peace Hub would serve as a platform for climate-security coordination, conflict prevention, early warning systems and community engagement.

According to her, the facility will also provide women and youths with opportunities to acquire green skills in renewable energy and climate-smart solutions, preparing them for emerging opportunities in the green economy.

The initiative is supported by the governments of Germany and Norway, which have partnered with UNDP to advance climate security and resilience-building programmes in Northwest Nigeria.

Also speaking at the event, Annett Günther commended the Katsina State Government for its commitment to sustainable development and resilience-building efforts.

The solar mini-grid project, implemented under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) programme, is expected to provide electricity to homes, schools, healthcare facilities and businesses in underserved communities.

Representing the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, Dr. Bala Tyoden said the initiative would enhance economic activities and improve living standards in beneficiary communities.

He noted that the Africa Minigrid Programme demonstrates how clean energy can support businesses, create jobs and improve quality of life while promoting climate-resilient development.

The Katsina State Government and its partners expressed optimism that the integrated investments would strengthen social cohesion, improve livelihoods and create sustainable pathways for peace and prosperity across the state.

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Nigeria’s electricity sector has received at least $3.653 billion in World Bank-backed funding over the past 24 years, yet millions of households and businesses across the country continue to grapple with unstable power supply, frequent national grid collapses and an overwhelming reliance on generators.

An analysis of World Bank-supported electricity projects between 2001 and 2024 shows that successive interventions targeted transmission upgrades, sector reforms, rural electrification, renewable energy expansion and recovery programmes designed to stabilise Nigeria’s struggling power industry.

According to data from the World Bank, as highlighted by Statisense, major interventions include the $100 million Transmission Development Project launched in 2001, the $172 million National Energy Development Project in 2005 and the $400 million Nigeria Electricity and Gas Improvement Project introduced in 2009.

Other projects include the $145 million Nigeria Power Sector Guarantees Project in 2014, the $486 million Nigeria Electricity Transmission Project in 2018, the $350 million Nigeria Electrification Project also launched in 2018, the $750 million Power Sector Recovery Programme approved in 2020, the $750 million Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up Programme introduced in 2023 and the $500 million Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Project launched in 2024.

Collectively, the projects account for approximately $3.653 billion in funding, excluding regional interconnector and hydro rehabilitation initiatives whose financial details were not disclosed.

Electricity Challenges Persist Despite Billions in Funding

Despite the substantial investments, Nigeria’s electricity supply remains inadequate for its growing population and expanding industrial sector.

The national grid continues to experience repeated collapses, while power generation has remained below the level required to meet national demand. As a result, households and businesses still depend heavily on petrol and diesel generators due to unreliable electricity supply from distribution companies.

Industry experts have attributed the persistent crisis to weak transmission infrastructure, liquidity challenges within the power market, gas supply constraints, vandalism, inadequate investment and policy inconsistencies.

Shift Towards Renewable Energy Solutions

The pattern of interventions reflects a gradual shift in the World Bank’s strategy from conventional transmission and gas-focused projects toward renewable energy and decentralised electricity access.

Recent programmes such as the Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up initiative and the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Project are designed to expand solar-powered electricity access, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

The World Bank has maintained that these initiatives are intended to improve electricity access, strengthen transmission infrastructure and support reforms capable of attracting private sector investment into Nigeria’s power sector.

However, concerns remain regarding the pace of implementation and the actual impact of these interventions on electricity consumers nationwide.

Businesses Continue to Face High Energy Costs

Businesses across Nigeria continue to cite rising energy costs as one of their biggest operational challenges, with manufacturers spending significant amounts on self-generation due to unreliable grid power.

The persistent electricity crisis has also negatively affected productivity, healthcare delivery, small businesses and overall living conditions across the country.

Stakeholders argue that Nigeria’s continued dependence on donor-backed interventions highlights the depth of structural challenges facing the power sector, more than a decade after the privatisation of electricity generation and distribution companies.

While the interventions have contributed to infrastructure development and improved electricity access in some communities, a stable and reliable nationwide electricity supply remains largely elusive.

Federal Government Cancels $717.7m World Bank Facility

The development comes after the Federal Government cancelled $717.7 million in undisbursed World Bank financing earmarked for Nigeria’s electricity sector.

Documents obtained from the World Bank revealed that the cancellation affected the remaining balance of a $1.52 billion Power Sector Recovery Programme following a joint decision by both parties to discontinue financing due to evolving sector realities and challenges in meeting key reform milestones.

According to the World Bank restructuring paper, the entire undisbursed balance was cancelled, while the programme’s closing date was moved forward from June 30, 2027, to May 31, 2026.

Expert Blames Corruption, Governance Failures

Reacting to the situation, Professor of Energy at the University of Lagos, Dayo Ayoade, blamed corruption and poor governance for Nigeria’s persistent electricity challenges.

According to him, the country’s economy will continue to suffer unless decisive reforms are implemented within the power sector.

“Until the power sector is fixed, Nigerians and the economy will continue to suffer. Self-generation is inefficient and expensive for households and businesses,” he said.

Ayoade called for comprehensive reforms, improved governance, stronger accountability mechanisms and the gradual removal of electricity subsidies to ensure tariffs reflect the true cost of power generation and distribution.

He also warned against the proliferation of institutions within the sector, stressing the need for streamlined operations and stronger anti-corruption measures.

“Billions of dollars have been spent on power projects over the years with little improvement in electricity supply. We must address governance failures, leakages and corruption if we are serious about solving Nigeria’s electricity crisis,” he added.

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Nigeria’s new Minister of Power, Olasunkanmi Tegbe, has assured Nigerians that repeated national grid collapses, unstable electricity supply, and vandalism of power infrastructure will soon be addressed through urgent reforms.

Tegbe gave the assurance on Wednesday during his screening before the Senate plenary in Abuja, where lawmakers later confirmed his appointment after extensive questioning on the state of the country’s electricity sector.

The screening session, presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, focused heavily on the recurring collapse of the national grid, weak transmission infrastructure, and the growing liquidity crisis in the power sector.

Lawmakers warned that Nigerians were tired of repeated promises and demanded measurable improvements within a short period.

Senator Tahir Monguno described the persistent collapse of the national grid as a major setback to Nigeria’s economic and industrial growth.

“Grid collapse has become a recurring decimal, undermining development. Transmission has failed to match generation capacity,” he said.

Responding, Tegbe admitted that the sector’s challenges were deeply rooted and linked to poor coordination, inadequate gas supply, and weak enforcement of technical standards.

“Grid collapse is not accidental; it reflects deeper structural problems,” he stated.

The minister-designate announced a 100-day reform plan aimed at stabilising the grid and improving public accountability through a performance monitoring system.

“If there are no results in three months, there will be none in six. Nigerians should hold us accountable,” he declared.

Tegbe also accused certain individuals of benefiting from the inefficiencies in the electricity sector and vowed to confront sabotage directly.

“There are elements that do not want the system to work because they benefit from its failure. We will take them on,” he said.

On the issue of vandalism, he described attacks on power infrastructure as a national security threat and promised closer collaboration with security agencies, including the military and the Office of the National Security Adviser.

The minister-designate further acknowledged the worsening liquidity crisis in the sector, estimated at about N6tn, and described the current financial structure as unsustainable.

He pledged reforms that would support market-reflective electricity tariffs while ensuring affordability for vulnerable Nigerians.

“Electricity pricing must reflect market realities, but affordability remains essential. We will ensure a fair balance,” he said.

Lawmakers also pressed Tegbe on rural electrification and metering challenges affecting millions of consumers nationwide.

In response, he promised to expand mini-grid and renewable energy projects, especially solar-powered systems, to underserved communities.

“Decentralised energy will be key to reaching underserved communities and ensuring inclusive access,” he added.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin described the power sector as one of Nigeria’s biggest economic challenges, stressing that industries cannot survive without reliable electricity supply.

Despite the intense scrutiny, senators expressed cautious optimism in Tegbe’s ability to deliver reforms, citing his professional background and reform proposals.

In his closing remarks, Tegbe assured Nigerians that transparency, discipline, and collaboration would drive improvements in the sector.

“This is a difficult assignment, but progress is achievable with transparency, discipline and collaboration. Nigerians will see change,” he said.

President Bola Tinubu had forwarded Tegbe’s nomination to the Senate following the resignation of former Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu, who stepped down to pursue the Oyo State governorship ambition.

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The Federal Government has announced plans to raise ₦500 billion through the issuance of green bonds in 2026, as part of efforts to expand funding for climate-related and environmental projects across the country.

Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, disclosed this in a post on his verified X handle following Nigeria’s participation at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

According to Lawal, the proposed green bond issuance reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening climate financing mechanisms while reducing dependence on oil revenues and conventional borrowing for development funding.

He explained that proceeds from the ₦500 billion green bond would be deployed to support projects focused on climate change mitigation and adaptation, environmental protection, renewable energy development, sustainable agriculture and other environmentally friendly initiatives aligned with Nigeria’s climate objectives.

The minister noted that the planned issuance underscores Nigeria’s growing reliance on climate-linked debt instruments to mobilise long-term capital for sustainable development, while also attracting investors with strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) interests.

Nigeria has previously issued green bonds to finance eco-friendly projects, positioning the instrument as a critical component of its broader strategy to meet international climate commitments and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

The Federal Government believes that scaling up green bond financing will enhance environmental resilience, promote sustainable economic diversification and support inclusive growth, while reinforcing Nigeria’s leadership role in climate action within Africa.

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The Federal Government has handed over 100 two-bedroom energy-efficient homes to widows in Rigachikun, Kaduna State, under the Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL) Social Housing Programme.

The project, which features urban farming spaces and solar-powered systems, was designed to promote sustainable living and economic empowerment among vulnerable women.

Speaking during the handover, FHFL Chairman Demola Adebise said the initiative represents “renewed hope and restored dignity” for beneficiaries. He noted that the development integrates home ownership with skills training, livelihood support, and climate-smart construction.

The project began when the widows collectively offered their land and sought government partnership to build affordable homes. The collaboration, according to officials, resulted in a model for inclusive housing delivery and empowerment.

Each home was constructed using Expanded Polystyrene System technology, cutting costs and carbon emissions by up to 40 percent. In addition, beneficiaries received livelihood training and cottage yards for food processing and income generation.

Managing Director of FHFL, Abdulmuttalib Mukhtar, described the scheme as proof that effective collaboration between citizens and government can drive measurable social change.

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, said the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at inclusive growth and tangible development outcomes.

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, commended the initiative as a model of people-centred governance, saying it created over 500 jobs during construction while providing affordable housing for 100 families.

The project was executed in partnership with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Kaduna State Government.

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Kano State has achieved a historic milestone, climbing from 35th position last year to 4th place in Nigeria’s 2025 Subnational Climate Governance Performance Ranking, one of the most remarkable improvements ever recorded in the country’s climate governance history.

The leap highlights the visionary leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, whose administration has made environmental sustainability and climate resilience key priorities in its development agenda.

Under Governor Yusuf, Kano has launched several ambitious initiatives, including the Kano State Climate Change Policy, renewable energy deployment across public institutions, urban greening and beautification under the Urban Renewal Program, and large-scale afforestation and erosion control projects.

Speaking at the official unveiling of the ranking in Abuja, Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahiru Hashim, who represented the Governor, said the recognition reflects Kano’s steadfast commitment to sustainable development and sound environmental management.

At the event, Samantha Harrison, First Secretary for Climate Diplomacy at the British High Commission, Abuja, presented the certificate of recognition to the Kano State Government for its outstanding progress.

Governor Yusuf extended his gratitude to Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, the Federal Ministry of Environment, and the Department of Climate Change for their ongoing collaboration. He also commended the Society for Planet and Prosperity (SPP), the University of Bristol (UK), and the UK-FCDO PACE partnership for their roles in driving the national ranking initiative.

Yusuf dedicated the achievement to the people and government of Kano State, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to build a cleaner, greener, and more climate-resilient future for all.

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Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, says it spends nearly ₦4 billion annually on electricity, a situation the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, described as crippling and unsustainable.

“The university spends close to ₦4 billion every year on energy. This figure is not only shocking but clearly unsustainable. It is crippling our operations and undermining our ability to deliver quality education and conduct meaningful research.”

Speaking at a press conference to mark ABU’s 63rd anniversary, Ahmed said the institution could no longer rely on the national grid, noting that it had begun transitioning to renewable energy to reduce costs and achieve stability.

“We have embarked on a renewable energy drive to achieve self-reliance. ABU is taking its destiny into its own hands while continuing to seek external support to sustain growth.”

He disclosed that the Federal Government had provided ₦1 billion through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to ease the university’s energy burden, while a 10-megawatt solar project had been approved to provide stable power. Members of the university’s alumni, particularly the SBS Class of 1975, are also supporting a solar-powered CBT centre.

Reflecting on ABU’s founding vision, Ahmed said the university was established in 1962 by the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, to serve as a bridge of unity and progress.

“Sir Ahmadu Bello founded ABU to train the manpower required for the development of Northern Nigeria and, by extension, the whole country. He envisioned an institution rooted in service, excellence, and unity.”

He lamented that insecurity and poverty had slowed the North’s development, stressing that ABU would intensify research, agricultural innovation, and policy advocacy to address those challenges.

“Insecurity and poverty have undermined the North’s development and affected educational growth. ABU will intensify research, agricultural innovation, and policy advocacy to help restore hope and stability to our region.”

Ahmed said ABU remains the most resource-endowed agricultural research institution in West Africa, with facilities such as the Institute for Agricultural Research and the National Animal Production Research Institute.

“No other university in West Africa has the kind of agricultural research capacity we possess. We have the knowledge, the manpower, and the facilities to drive food security and rural development.”

He added that Times Higher Education ranked ABU as Nigeria’s best public university in 2025, with the institution securing over $20 million in international research grants and registering more than 30 patents.

“Funding remains a major challenge. We are therefore focusing on digital education, commercialising research, and nurturing start-ups from our innovations to make ABU more self-sustaining.”

The Vice Chancellor urged alumni to support their alma mater through endowments, donations, and mentorship.

“Our alumni are ABU’s greatest strength. The Sardauna gave you an opportunity; now it’s time to give back. You have the resources, the influence, and the talent to secure the future of this great university.”

As ABU celebrates its 63rd anniversary, Ahmed reaffirmed the university’s commitment to unity, service, and excellence.

“We have come a long way, but the journey continues. ABU will keep shining as a beacon of hope, knowledge, and national integration.”

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