Nigerian Government Delays Release of N300 Billion Budget for Solar Power in Universities and Hospitals

The Federal Government of Nigeria has not disbursed the allocated N300 billion for solar power interventions in universities and teaching hospitals as proposed in the 2025 budget. This delay has stalled the implementation of solar hybrid renewable energy systems in these institutions, leading to continued reliance on diesel generators for daily operations.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, Abubakar Bichi, inaugurated a solar hybrid project at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, aligning with efforts to reduce power disruptions in critical sectors like healthcare. Despite the budget allocation, work on the projects is yet to commence in several listed beneficiary institutions.

The delay in fund release comes amidst broader challenges affecting budget implementation, with significant portions of the budget being spent on recurrent expenditures and debt servicing, limiting fiscal space for capital projects.