By Rasheeda Hamidu
The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) unveiled a N300 million solar power system in Lagos to strengthen electricity supply for critical laboratories and research facilities through renewable energy infrastructure.
The solar facility was commissioned at NIMR’s headquarters in Yaba, Lagos, under a partnership with the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), with support from the United States Department of State, according to a statement published by the institute on Friday.
Director-General of NIMR, Prof. John Oladapo Obafunwa, represented by Director of Administration Bitrus Nelson, said the project would improve the institute’s capacity to sustain research, diagnostic services and disease surveillance activities that depend on uninterrupted electricity supply.
NatureNews notes that renewable energy adoption in health and research institutions is increasingly recognised as a strategy for reducing fossil fuel dependence, lowering operational costs and improving climate-resilient public health infrastructure.
According to NIMR, the solar installation comprises 312 solar panels rated at 705 watts each, two 209 KVA lithium battery units and two 50 KVA inverters designed to provide stable electricity for key operational areas within the institute.
The institute reported that the facility currently supports the COBAS laboratory for HIV viral load testing, molecular laboratories for PCR-based diagnostics, seminar facilities and the biobank complex housing ultra-low temperature freezers.
Managing Director of ECEWS, Dr Andy Eyo, stated that the intervention formed part of broader efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and public health systems across Nigeria through sustainable energy investments.
ECEWS disclosed that the project was valued at more than N300 million and was designed to guarantee efficiency, durability and long-term sustainability for critical research and diagnostic operations.
NIMR reported that monthly electricity bills at the institute rose above N48 million after August 2024 and later increased to between N49 million and N52 million, prompting the introduction of stricter energy management measures.
Representing the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Obafunwa stated that renewable energy deployment aligns with the Federal Government’s objective of strengthening healthcare systems while supporting sustainable development goals.
NatureNews tracks renewable energy deployment, sustainable infrastructure and climate-resilient health systems as part of its coverage of environmental sustainability and development across Nigeria and Africa.
