The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a dire warning, stating that many Nigerian universities are at risk of collapse due to “unbearable electricity costs.” During the opening session of a two-day national conference in Abuja, ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, revealed that some universities are facing monthly electricity bills ranging from N200 million to N300 million.

He pointed out that despite these exorbitant bills, universities receive only N15 million monthly from the federal government to cover running costs, including electricity and other expenses. Prof. Osodeke criticized the disparity in government funding, highlighting that while universities receive a mere N15 million for operational costs, each senator is paid N21 million monthly.

He remarked, “The government allocates N15 million to run the system, yet the electricity bill alone can reach N300 million. Where do we expect to find that money? We need funds to operate laboratories, provide diesel, and fuel vehicles.”

He concluded by emphasizing the skewed priorities of the government, stating, “A government that gives just N15 million for UNILAG to operate will simultaneously provide N21 million monthly to a senator. That illustrates where our priorities lie.”