The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has commissioned a 100 KVA Solar Power System aimed at strengthening uninterrupted electricity supply to critical laboratories and research facilities within the institute.
The solar solution, donated by the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS) with support from the United States Department of State, was formally commissioned on Friday, May 22, at the institute’s Yaba, Lagos headquarters.
The project represents a major milestone in NIMR’s drive towards sustainable energy solutions, operational efficiency and uninterrupted support for biomedical research, disease surveillance and diagnostic services.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Director-General of NIMR, Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa, represented by the Director of Administration, Mr. Bitrus Nelson, said the project would significantly improve the institute’s capacity to deliver on its mandate.
He described the commissioning as more than an infrastructure event.
“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.
Professor Obafunwa noted that reliable electricity remains indispensable for laboratory operations, molecular testing, data systems, cold chain infrastructure and emergency preparedness.
According to him, the new solar power system currently supports several strategic sections of the institute, including the COBAS laboratory for HIV viral load testing, molecular laboratories for PCR-based diagnostics, seminar and training facilities and the biobank building housing ultra-low temperature freezers.
The NIMR DG further disclosed that the institute had been battling huge electricity bills running into tens of millions of naira monthly.
He recalled that shortly after assuming office in August 2024, the institute received electricity bills exceeding N48 million monthly, later rising to between N49 million and N52 million.
He said the management introduced several energy conservation measures, including prepaid metering and stricter monitoring of electricity usage, while expressing optimism that the solar intervention would provide significant relief.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of ECEWS, Dr. Andy Eyo, described NIMR as one of Nigeria’s most important public health institutions.
He said ECEWS was proud to support the institute through the deployment of what he described as its most sophisticated renewable energy infrastructure in the health sector.
The solar installation comprises 312 solar panels rated at 705 watts each, two 209 KVA lithium battery units and two 50 KVA inverters.
Dr. Eyo said the project, valued at over N300 million, was carefully designed to guarantee durability, efficiency and sustainability.
“This system is not just about power supply. It is about strengthening health systems, supporting quality research and ensuring continuity of critical diagnostic services,” he said.
Representing the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, Professor Obafunwa commended ECEWS and the United States Department of State for supporting Nigeria’s health and research sector.
He said the deployment of renewable energy solutions aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare systems and promoting climate-resilient infrastructure.
The event was attended by representatives of government agencies, development partners, researchers, healthcare professionals and members of the NIMR management team.
