Include us in 50% power subsidy, NIMR tells FG

The Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Prof John Obafunwa, has urged the Federal Government to extend the 50% electricity subsidy granted to tertiary institutions and government hospitals to the institute.

He highlighted that NIMR’s research directly benefits universities and teaching hospitals and should therefore be eligible for similar support.

Speaking during a two-day end-of-year retreat at NIMR, Obafunwa revealed that the institute’s monthly electricity bills from the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) had skyrocketed, totalling over ₦218 million between August and December 2024.

This far exceeds its annual electricity budget of ₦20 million.

“The institute’s classification under Band A has resulted in exorbitant bills, with figures like ₦49 million for August alone,” Obafunwa lamented, adding that repeated attempts to engage EKEDC for a resolution have been fruitless.

He warned that the financial strain threatens to disrupt critical laboratory research, damage temperature-sensitive samples, and hinder operations, especially as most equipment is powered by donations from foreign benefactors.

READ ALSO:NiMRA seeks collaborations to strengthen market research

The DG explained that NIMR is also taking steps to reduce costs by introducing prepaid meters across its facilities and seeking support from international funders for solar power installations.

Prof Obafunwa emphasised the need for greater awareness of NIMR’s contributions to healthcare and research, advocating for improved recognition and funding from both the government and the public.

“NIMR’s work underpins many advances in medical education and healthcare delivery. Extending the subsidy will not only alleviate financial pressures but also safeguard the critical role we play in the sector,” he stated.

The Federal Government’s 50% electricity subsidy was introduced in August, and it aims to reduce operational costs for public hospitals, after widespread complaints about increased electricity tariffs since their upgrade to Band A.