The article emphasizes the crucial need for a robust energy and power system in Nigeria, asserting that development cannot be achieved without quality education, which itself depends on reliable electricity.
It outlines the Nigerian government’s plans to address the country’s electricity crisis, focusing specifically on how this crisis hampers the education sector and hinders national development.
The communique reveals that a panel discussion highlighted the ongoing disruption caused by unreliable power in educational institutions across Nigeria. Panelists discussed how high electricity tariffs and inconsistent supply are severely impacting universities, making it nearly impossible for federal institutions to operate efficiently. Students and educators face challenging conditions due to these issues, which limit the potential of young people in the educational system.
The discussion noted that recent tariff increases, coupled with inflation and naira devaluation, have worsened teaching and learning standards in public universities. The removal of a 67% government electricity subsidy has exacerbated the financial strain on these underfunded institutions, many of which face substantial debt due to high electricity expenses.
Echono discussed efforts to establish ICT centers on campuses to provide students from diverse backgrounds with training and job opportunities. He also advocated for stronger partnerships between academia and industry, encouraging lecturers to take sabbaticals in industry to bridge the gap between academic and practical knowledge.
In the energy sector, he highlighted Nigeria’s heavy reliance on non-renewable energy sources (over 80%), with less than 5% from renewable sources. He underscored the need to diversify energy sources and address the 40-60% energy losses caused by system inefficiencies. Echono also suggested opening the energy market to competition to improve efficiency, drawing parallels with the telecommunications sector.
EWAN Chairman Mr. Mojeed Alabi voiced concerns about the energy crisis and its damaging effects on education, emphasizing that stable electricity is essential to achieving quality, affordable education in Nigeria.
