Electricity Tariff: Babcock VC Urges Federal Government To Address Private Universities’ Challenges

Electricity Tariff: Babcock VC Urges Federal Government To Address Private Universities’ Challenges

Prof. Ademola Tayo, the President and Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, has called on the federal government…READ MORE…

to intervene in the plight of private universities facing exorbitant electricity tariffs, which are imposing significant financial burdens on these institutions.

During a recent meeting with members of the Education Writers Association of Nigeria (EWAN) at the university’s Ilishan campus, he emphasized that both private and public universities contribute to the same society and that the role of private universities should not be overlooked.

He noted that if the federal government was willing to implement a 50 percent subsidy for 37 federal universities and seven teaching hospitals, it should similarly assist private universities in their time of need.

Prof. Tayo revealed that Babcock University incurs monthly electricity bills ranging from N250 million to N300 million from the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, a figure he described as untenable. “Despite our efforts to lessen our reliance on the national grid, such as investing in our own Independent Power Plant (IPP) and utilizing solar energy for street lighting, the burden remains heavy. Since both types of universities are producing graduates for the same labor market, the federal government should provide support to private institutions, just as it has for public universities,” he stated.

Last July, during the university’s convocation, Prof. Tayo had previously warned that rising power tariffs were jeopardizing the viability of universities across the country.

Expressing gratitude for the support from EWAN members over the past nine years, he urged journalists to maintain their integrity by adhering to ethical standards of fairness and objectivity in their reporting.

“The commitment of education writers to factual and fair reporting has significantly influenced governmental perspectives and institutional policies regarding academic issues. Your contributions foster accountability among stakeholders and promote transparency, leading to meaningful improvements in our educational system,” he remarked.

Discussing his administration’s achievements, Prof. Tayo highlighted the expansion of academic programs, including the establishment of a cutting-edge entrepreneurship training center in Ekiti, the Babcock Business School in Lagos, and a Distance Learning Center, all aimed at maintaining the institution’s tradition of academic excellence.

He emphasized the importance of accurate information and accountability, reminding media professionals of their essential role in promoting national unity.

In response, Mojeed Alabi, Chairman of EWAN, expressed gratitude to Babcock University’s management and staff for their recognition of the media’s critical role in the nation’s development and progress.

For More Information And News Update, Join Ireporteronline WhatsApp Channel With Link Below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaV4jB6DuMRgwqnJCF32 For advertisement inquiries only, kindly send a message to 09010649814 on Whatsapp