The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has unveiled a 100 KVA solar power system to address the institute’s lingering electricity challenges and support critical research and diagnostic facilities at the institution.

The solar power system, donated to the NIMR by Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), is expected to provide uninterrupted electricity to key laboratories and research facilities.

Speaking during the unveiling, the Director-General of NIMR, Prof.John Obafunwa, said the solar power would significantly improve operational efficiency, reducing dependence on fossil fuel-powered electricity and supporting environmental sustainability.

Mr Obafunwa, represented by the Director of Administration, Bitrus Nelson, described the intervention as strategic and timely.

He said reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply remained critical to NIMR’s mandate of generating scientific evidence for national health policies and interventions.

“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.

According to him, the solar power solution now supports several critical operational areas within the institute, including the COBAS laboratory for HIV viral load testing and molecular laboratories for PCR-based analysis.

Others are biobank facility housing ultra-low temperature freezers, seminar and training facilities, and key support units.

The DG noted that uninterrupted power supply was essential for laboratory-based research, cold chain systems, emergency preparedness and data management.

Mr Obafunwa stressed that the new installation would help preserve the integrity of valuable research specimens and ensure continuity of critical services.

The Managing Director of ECEWS, Dr Andy Eyo, described NIMR as a vital institution for Nigeria’s public health and global health security architecture.

According to him, the solar project is part of broader efforts by ECEWS to strengthen healthcare infrastructure across Nigeria.

“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.

Mr Eyo disclosed that the N300 million project comprised 312 solar panels of 705 watts each, two 209 KVA lithium battery units and two 50 KVA inverters for AC power conversion.

He explained that the system was carefully designed based on lessons from previous renewable energy projects in the health sector and had undergone extensive test-running with NIMR engineers.

“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 the institute’s energy costs so that more resources can be redirected into research and quality healthcare,” he added.

Representing the Minister of State for Health, Dr Iziaq Salako, the NIMR DG commended ECEWS for its continued support to Nigeria’s health and research sector.

He noted that investments in renewable energy within health and research institutions were critical for efficiency, cost-effectiveness and service continuity.

“The deployment of renewable energy solutions such as this solar system aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening health systems while embracing sustainable development,” he said.

He recounted that NIMR’s  electricity bill shortly after he assumed office in August 2024 exceeded N48 million monthly and later rose to between N49 million and N52 million despite modest government subvention.

He explained that NIMR management had introduced several measures to reduce electricity consumption, including the installation of prepaid meters and stricter energy management practices.

The DG appreciated ECEWS and its partners for the intervention and urged members of staff to continue using electricity prudently.

NIMR said the intervention would strengthen the institute’s capacity to sustain critical research activities, improve diagnostic services and contribute to Nigeria’s broader climate and renewable energy goals.

(NAN)