The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has unveiled a 100 KVA solar power system valued at N300 million to address its persistent electricity challenges and strengthen the operations of critical research and diagnostic facilities at the institute.
The solar installation, donated by the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), is expected to provide uninterrupted power supply to key laboratories, biobank facilities, and other sensitive research units that rely heavily on stable electricity.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, the Director-General of NIMR, Prof. John Obafunwa, said the intervention would significantly enhance operational efficiency while reducing dependence on fossil fuel-powered electricity sources.
Obafunwa, who was represented by the Director of Administration, Mr Bitrus Nelson, described the project as both strategic and timely, noting that reliable electricity remains central to the institute’s mandate of producing scientific evidence for national health policies.
“Today’s event represents much more than the commissioning of a 100 KVA facility. It signifies a shared commitment to sustainable development, resilient research systems and strengthening global partnerships in advancing public health outcomes,” he said.
He explained that the solar power system now supports several critical operational areas, including the COBAS laboratory for HIV viral load testing, molecular laboratories for PCR-based analysis, ultra-low temperature biobank freezers, seminar and training halls, as well as other support units.
According to him, uninterrupted power supply is essential for laboratory-based research, cold chain systems, emergency preparedness and data management, adding that the new installation would help preserve sensitive research specimens and ensure continuity of scientific work.
Obafunwa further stressed that the project aligns with efforts to reduce operational costs, especially given the institute’s rising electricity expenditure.
He disclosed that NIMR’s monthly electricity bill rose from over N48 million to between N49 million and N52 million despite modest government subvention, a situation that placed additional strain on the institute’s resources.
“We have introduced several measures to reduce electricity consumption, including the installation of prepaid meters and stricter energy management practices,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to ECEWS and its partners for the intervention, urging staff of the institute to use energy prudently to ensure sustainability of the project.
Speaking also, the Managing Director of ECEWS, Dr Andy Eyo, said the solar project forms part of broader efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure across Nigeria.
He described NIMR as a critical institution in the country’s public health and global health security architecture, noting that its contributions to disease surveillance, research and outbreak response remain invaluable.
“Without NIMR, we would be more challenged than we can imagine. NIMR has played a significant role in Nigeria’s public health history and in responding to emerging public health threats,” he said.
Dr Eyo disclosed that the project comprises 312 solar panels of 705 watts each, two 209 KVA lithium battery units, and two 50 KVA inverters for power conversion.
He added that the system was designed using lessons from previous renewable energy projects in the health sector and had undergone extensive testing with NIMR engineers before deployment.
“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 energy costs so that more resources can be redirected into research and quality healthcare,” he said.
Representing the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, the NIMR Director-General commended ECEWS for supporting Nigeria’s health and research ecosystem.
He said investments in renewable energy for health institutions align with the federal government’s commitment to strengthening the health system while promoting sustainable development.
The intervention is expected to improve diagnostic services, enhance research capacity, and support Nigeria’s broader transition toward clean and sustainable energy in critical public institutions.
