Obafemi Awolowo University moves to begin Electricity generation, distribution

• Becomes first Nigerian tertiary institution to obtain license for self-generation, distribution 

The Vice-Chancellor of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede, has announced that the University has obtained the license to distribute electricity to the university community. Speaking at the 60th anniversary of the institution’s creation, Pro. Ogunbodede noted that the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) project would soon be completed. The project will deliver 8.03MW of electricity to the institution.

“The university has processed and obtained from the Transmission Corporation of Nigeria the marketing license as electricity distributor, the first Nigerian university to enjoy the privilege. This will enable OAU generate its own electricity,” Ogunbodede said. “The aim is to reduce the economic burden of high tariff and ensure regular electricity supply to enhance its various academic activities,” he added.

Prof. Ogunbodede lamented the excessive electricity bills and self-generation costs incurred by the institution monthly. ”The university presently pays over N80 million per month for electricity and additionally over N2 million per month on Diesel to power generators,” he said.

The OAU will be the first tertiary institution to get approval for self-generation and distribution.