The Nigerian Institute of Medical Research has received a N300 million solar power intervention aimed at tackling persistent electricity disruptions affecting critical laboratory and research operations at the institute.

The 100KVA solar power system, donated under the Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS), was recently commissioned to provide uninterrupted electricity to key research and diagnostic facilities within the institute.

NIMR said the solar power system currently supports three critical facilities within the institute, including the COBAS building complex for viral testing, HIV and tuberculosis specimen analysis and diagnostic result generation, as well as the Biobank facility where sensitive biological samples are preserved under ultra-low temperature conditions.

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

Managing Director of ECEWS, Andy Eyo, said the solar project forms part of broader efforts by the organisation to strengthen healthcare infrastructure across the country. He described NIMR as a critical institution within Nigeria’s public health and global health security architecture.

Eyo noted that NIMR has played a significant role in Nigeria’s public health history and response to emerging health threats. He disclosed that the N300 million project comprises 312 solar panels of 705 watts each, two 209KVA lithium battery units and two 50KVA 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 already undergone extensive test-running with NIMR engineers.

According to him, the installation is the most sophisticated solar facility deployed by ECEWS in the health sector and was designed to provide a stable power supply while reducing energy costs, enabling more resources to be redirected into research and quality healthcare.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Director-General of NIMR, John Obafunwa, represented by the Director of Administration, Bitrus Nelson, described the intervention as strategic and timely.

He said uninterrupted electricity supply remains essential to the institute’s mandate of generating scientific evidence for national health policies and interventions.

According to him, the project represents more than the commissioning of a solar facility, noting that it reflects a shared commitment to sustainable development, resilient research systems and stronger partnerships in advancing public health outcomes.

Obafunwa explained that the solar power solution currently supports several critical operational areas within the institute, including the COBAS laboratory for HIV viral load testing, molecular laboratories for PCR-based analysis, the biobank facility housing ultra-low temperature freezers, seminar and training facilities, as well as key support units.

He stressed that an uninterrupted power supply is crucial for laboratory-based research, cold chain systems, emergency preparedness and data management, adding that the installation would help preserve the integrity of valuable research specimens and ensure continuity of essential services.

The NIMR DG also recalled that the institute’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 the management had introduced measures to reduce electricity consumption, including the installation of prepaid meters and stricter energy management practices.

Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Salako, represented by Obafunwa, 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 are critical for efficiency, cost-effectiveness and continuity of services, stressing that the deployment aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening health systems while promoting sustainable development.