Naija247news reports that the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) is grappling with a severe electricity crisis that threatens to paralyze its critical research activities. The institute’s Director-General (DG) raised the alarm on Monday, lamenting the skyrocketing electricity bills and recurrent blackouts that have dealt a significant blow to its operations.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Naija247news gathered that the DG disclosed that NIMR incurs monthly electricity bills running into tens of millions of Naira, an unsustainable expense that has pushed the institute to the brink of financial strain. The situation, compounded by erratic power supply, has disrupted key research projects aimed at advancing medical solutions for Nigeria and beyond.
Naija247news understands that the institute, which plays a vital role in public health research, has been forced to rely heavily on alternative power sources such as generators. However, the cost of diesel and maintenance has further strained its limited resources. The DG reportedly stated, “We are in a dire situation where electricity bills and blackouts are crippling our ability to deliver on our mandate. Research activities that require uninterrupted power supply have been severely impacted.”
According to Naija247news, the DG called on the federal government to urgently intervene, emphasizing the importance of NIMR’s work in tackling pressing health challenges such as infectious diseases, cancer, and other non-communicable diseases. The DG also urged stakeholders in the energy sector to prioritize stable and affordable power supply for research institutions, highlighting their pivotal role in national development.
Naija247news reports that the electricity crisis at NIMR has sparked concerns among health and research experts, who warn that prolonged disruptions could lead to setbacks in the country’s medical advancements. “When research institutions are unable to function optimally, it affects not just science but public health outcomes as well,” a source told Naija247news.
Naija247news gathered that NIMR is exploring alternative energy solutions, including solar power, to mitigate the crisis, but the financial outlay required for such investments remains a significant hurdle.
Naija247news understands that the institute’s plight underscores the broader challenges faced by research facilities across Nigeria, where unreliable power supply and rising operational costs continue to hinder scientific innovation and progress.
