The University of Lagos (UNILAG) is currently in a financial dispute with the local electricity company, EKEDC, over an unpaid bill of ₦472 million, which led to an unexpected power outage on campus last Tuesday. This situation highlights the financial challenges facing the institution and underscores the importance of dialogue and collaboration between the various parties involved.
In a statement issued by the university management, it stressed concern over the situation and appealed for understanding from the community. Despite a recent payment of ₦180 million to EKEDC, UNILAG was left without notice of power, worsening the university’s already precarious financial situation.
EKEDC’s decision to downgrade the University of Lagos from “Category B” to “Category A” of its tariff plan has had a significant impact on the institution’s finances. The move has nearly doubled the university’s monthly electricity bill from about ₦150 million to nearly ₦300 million in June. The sudden increase has challenged the university’s ability to meet its financial obligations.
UNILAG management has stressed that it has engaged in discussions with EKEDC over the exorbitant tariffs and preferred to remain on the more affordable Category B tariff. Despite the negotiation efforts and the recent payment, EKEDC issued a bill for the month of July amounting to nearly ₦472 million, further compounding the institution’s financial challenges.
The forced power outage has led the university to ration electricity supply on campus, leaving students and staff in a precarious situation. However, the university management has assured the community that steps are being taken to address the issue.
This situation underscores the need for increased cooperation and transparency between academic institutions and utility companies to ensure an environment conducive to learning and research. It is hoped that this financial dispute can be resolved expeditiously to enable the University of Lagos to return to normal operations and focus on its core educational mission.