The Lagos State University (LASU) spends more than N200 million every month on electricity, according to the Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule.
Sule explained that the high cost is driven by persistent power challenges, including unreliable grid supply and the university’s dependence on diesel-powered generators. He made this known on Friday during the sod-turning ceremony for the TETFund/PPP Students’ Hostel Project at LASU’s main campus in Ojo.
He noted that the monthly expenditure covers electricity bills and the cost of diesel used to run generators across faculties, hostels, administrative offices, and other essential facilities.
According to the commissioner, the rising cost of energy has placed a heavy financial burden on the institution, limiting funds available for academic development and infrastructure upgrades. He added that managing such recurring expenses has become increasingly difficult due to competing priorities within the university system.
Sule, however, expressed optimism that a proposed power plant by the Federal Government would significantly reduce electricity costs and improve efficiency. He said stable power supply would enhance teaching, research, and overall student welfare.
He also described the hostel project as part of broader efforts to improve infrastructure and living conditions in tertiary institutions nationwide, noting that it reflects renewed attention to long-standing accommodation challenges.
Sule commended the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, for supporting the university through strategic interventions aimed at strengthening the education sector.
He further praised the collaboration between federal and state governments, stating that it has helped ease financial pressure on Lagos State. He called for similar support for other state-owned institutions, including LASUSTECH and LASUED, to ensure balanced development.
In his remarks, Alausa said the hostel project aligns with the broader education reform agenda of Bola Tinubu, which focuses on improving learning conditions across the country.
He added that the Federal Government plans to invest about N100 billion through TETFund in 2026 to construct hostels in 50 tertiary institutions, as part of efforts to expand access to quality education and strengthen the stability of Nigeria’s higher education system.
