NIMR Tackles Power Crisis With N300m Solar Project

NIMR Tackles Power Crisis With N300m Solar Project
The NIMR boss explained that the solar power system would support critical facilities including the COBAS laboratory
The NIMR’s monthly electricity bill rose to between N49 million and N52 million

The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research has commissioned a 100KVA solar power system to tackle persistent electricity challenges affecting critical research and diagnostic operations at the institute.

Eko Hot Blog reports that the solar facility, donated by Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), was officially commissioned on Friday, May 22, and is expected to provide stable electricity supply to key laboratories and research centres within the institute.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Director-General of NIMR, Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa, represented by the Director of Administration, Mr. Bitrus Nelson, described the intervention as timely and strategic.

According to him, uninterrupted electricity remains essential for medical research, disease surveillance, laboratory testing, data management and preservation of sensitive biological samples.

“Today’s event represents much more than the commissioning of a 100KVA facility. It signifies a shared commitment to sustainable development, resilient research systems and strengthening global partnerships in advancing public health outcomes,” he said.

The NIMR boss explained that the solar power system would support critical facilities including the COBAS laboratory used for HIV viral load testing, molecular laboratories for PCR analysis, the institute’s biobank facility, seminar halls and other operational units.

NIMR Tackles Power Crisis With N300m Solar Project

He noted that the installation would help reduce disruptions caused by power outages while preserving the integrity of valuable research specimens stored under ultra-low temperature conditions.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of ECEWS, Dr. Andy Eyo, described NIMR as a key institution in Nigeria’s public health system and global health security framework.

He disclosed that the N300 million project consists of 312 solar panels of 705 watts each, two 209KVA lithium battery units and two 50KVA inverters designed to provide stable and cost-effective electricity supply.

“This is the most sophisticated solar facility we have deployed in the health sector. It is designed not only to provide stable power but also to reduce the institute’s energy costs so that more resources can be redirected into research and quality healthcare,” Eyo said.

The Director-General further revealed that NIMR’s monthly electricity bill rose to between N49 million and N52 million shortly after he assumed office in August 2024, forcing the institute to introduce stricter energy management measures.

He commended ECEWS and its partners for the intervention, stressing that the project aligns with the Federal Government’s drive towards renewable energy and stronger healthcare infrastructure.

NIMR added that the solar facility would strengthen its capacity to sustain research activities, improve diagnostic services and contribute to Nigeria’s renewable energy goals.