Gabriella Ogbu
Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe, the immediate past vice-chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Akoka, believes that no Nigerian university, particularly a public one, can pay the current electricity costs imposed by electrical distribution companies.
Delivering a Heroes Day and valedictory lecture at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) on Wednesday, Ogundipe emphasized that many universities, including UNILAG—regarded as one of the best in Nigeria—struggle significantly to cover their electricity costs. This difficulty persists despite the previous rates being much lower than the current, significantly increased rates. The event was organized by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) branch of the university to honor retired members and the departing vice chancellor of UDUS, Prof. Lawal Bilbis.
In his speech titled “University Governance and Traditions in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges, and Prospects,” Ogundipe identified the high cost of electricity as one of the most pressing issues facing Nigerian institutions today, calling for urgent action to address the situation. He revealed that in 2021 alone, UNILAG’s annual power bill soared to N1.7 billion, while the federal government’s total subvention to the university—which was not fully released—was only N150 million. As of last month, UNILAG’s electricity costs had further escalated to over N250 million per month.
Ogundipe rhetorically questioned how any university in the nation could afford such high costs when their primary purpose is to produce knowledge and highly skilled labor for the economy, rather than to generate profit. He also addressed criticisms directed at universities for not producing their own independent power plants to alleviate this cost burden, pointing out the significant financial challenges involved in such initiatives.
He elaborated that establishing a power plant is not as simple as many might think, as it would require substantial funds that are difficult for any public university to raise. Highlighting the disparity in earnings, he noted that a tenured professor at a public university earns about N500,000 a month, while a venture capitalist makes around N800,000. He questioned, “Where would the university then get money to finance the power plant?” asserting that it is the government’s role to support such initiatives in addition to funding academic research.
Despite these challenges, Ogundipe expressed gratitude to ASUU for inviting him to deliver the lecture and commended the organization for its continuous efforts to enhance access to public university education in Nigeria. He proudly identified himself as a member of ASUU, praising the UDUS-ASUU for honoring veteran members, including the departing vice chancellor.
“As far as I’m concerned, I proudly represent ASUU wherever I go,” Ogundipe stated, adding that the recognition of outstanding members should be extended to national and global levels, and their cutting-edge research projects should be continuously highlighted. He emphasized that both commendation and criticism are necessary, but recognizing and celebrating achievements is equally important.
Ogundipe also reflected on his tenure as vice chancellor at UNILAG, describing it as requiring immense sacrifice, dedication, and concentration. He recalled the accusations of sharp practices made against him by the then-Governing Council led by Dr. Wale Babalakin, asserting that the attack was not personally against him but targeted the university system through him.
“I give thanks to God Almighty that my accuser was unsuccessful, and I am grateful to everyone who supported me, including this departing Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bilbis,” Ogundipe concluded.
