The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) is taking major steps to solve the electricity challenges facing public universities, polytechnics, and colleges across Nigeria by introducing cleaner and more reliable energy systems.
After a detailed energy audit carried out with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), TETFund has received recommendations from its Steering Committee on Alternative Energy Solutions. The committee proposed a mix of solar power, battery storage, gas-powered backup, and limited grid use as the best way to meet campus energy needs affordably and sustainably.
The report warned that relying on diesel generators is no longer practical or cost-effective. Instead, institutions should adopt region-specific hybrid energy systems tailored to local needs and conditions. Priority will be given to powering essential facilities like ICT centres, hospitals, and labs.
As part of a pilot phase, schools have been selected from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones—including Lagos State University, Ambrose Alli University, and the Federal Polytechnic in Nasarawa—to implement the new energy model.
TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arc Sonny Echono, praised the committee’s work and said the findings would guide future investments in clean energy across tertiary institutions.
TETFund Backs Mechanised Farming in Agriculture-Based Universities
In another major move, TETFund is supporting ten universities to set up fully mechanised farms and livestock projects under its 2025 intervention programme.
A special evaluation committee has been formed to select the benefiting institutions. To qualify, universities must either be focused on agriculture or have a strong agricultural faculty, own at least 50 hectares of land, and already run a functional commercial farm.
TETFund Chairman, Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, said agriculture plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s economic development and has the power to create jobs, reduce poverty, and improve food security. He stressed the need to embrace modern agricultural technologies like precision farming and automation.
He added that TETFund is already funding agricultural research centres and demonstration farms in some universities and hopes this new initiative will boost innovation and productivity in the sector.
Masari expressed confidence that these efforts will drive meaningful change in both the education and agriculture sectors, helping Nigeria achieve long-term growth and self-reliance.
