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Innovative Solar-Powered Electric Vehicle Charging Station Unveiled At UNN

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By Tambaya Julius

A groundbreaking event recently took place at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), as the Federal Government proudly inaugurated a cutting-edge solar-powered electric vehicle charging station.

This development marks a significant stride in the journey towards technological excellence within the automotive sector.

During the inauguration ceremony, Mr. Jelani Aliyu, the Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to advancing technology in the automotive industry.

He underlined the importance of this initiative in combatting the environmental challenges posed by conventional fossil fuel vehicles, which have been major contributors to pollution and global warming.

Aliyu pointed out that the pressing issues of global warming and climate change necessitate a paradigm shift in the automotive landscape.

He highlighted how numerous countries across the world are transitioning from traditional fossil fuel vehicles to electric alternatives due to their adverse effects on the environment and human health.

He revealed that NADDC, operating under the aegis of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, has received government sponsorship to establish solar-powered electric vehicle charging stations nationwide.

The ultimate goal is to achieve zero carbon emissions and mitigate health concerns stemming from pollution.

The inauguration event celebrated not only the launch of the solar charging station but also the selection of three prominent Nigerian universities for the pioneering project.

Besides UNN, the Usman Danfodio University in Sokoto and the University of Lagos were also chosen for this groundbreaking initiative, both having been inaugurated in 2021.

This concerted effort between academia and the automotive council is set to stimulate extensive research and development in pursuit of sustainable transportation solutions.

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Mr. Olarawaju Omusanya, the Director of Infrastructures at NADDC, emphasized the importance of universities seizing this opportunity to drive innovation and technological advancement.

He highlighted the pivotal role that these academic institutions play in advancing technology transfer and cultivating domestic expertise.

One of the remarkable features of this solar-powered charging station is its capability to empower staff and students with firsthand experience in renewable energy technology.

Vehicles fully charged at this station can travel an impressive 480 kilometers before needing to recharge.

This aligns with the ongoing global shift towards cleaner and more sustainable modes of transportation, transitioning from petrol and diesel vehicles to electric alternatives.

The successful completion and inauguration of this monumental project were the result of remarkable collaboration between NADDC and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Prof.

Charles Igwe, the Vice-Chancellor of UNN, expressed heartfelt appreciation for NADDC’s choice to include UNN as one of the pioneering universities in this transformative project.

He reiterated the university’s dedication to maintaining its status as a premier institution in Nigeria.

Prof. Igwe urged the faculty of engineering at UNN to seize the opportunity presented by the solar-powered charging station.

He encouraged them to lead the way by converting a significant number of university vehicles into electric ones, thereby reducing reliance on conventional fuels and cutting costs.

Prof. Ozomena Ani, the UNN Coordinator of the project, acknowledged the crucial role played by the university’s leadership in greenlighting and supporting the project.

He assured that his team of researchers and engineers would diligently oversee the project’s maintenance, ensuring its longevity and effectiveness.

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Prof. Emenike Ejiogu, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at UNN, echoed his colleagues’ sentiments, expressing the faculty’s enthusiasm for being the chosen site for the NADDC solar-powered electric station.

He affirmed the faculty’s unwavering commitment to providing the necessary human capital to support this innovative initiative, ensuring that both the university community and surrounding residents reap its wide-ranging benefits.

The inauguration of the solar-powered electric vehicle charging station at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, stands as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions and environmental preservation.

This landmark project not only embraces cutting-edge technology but also demonstrates the synergy between academia, government agencies, and industry in driving progress.

As the automotive landscape evolves towards greener horizons, this initiative serves as a shining example of Nigeria’s dedication to a more sustainable and prosperous future.

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Power Generation Faces Downturn, Falls By 1.64%, Says CBN

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The Nigerian electricity sector slowed in the fourth quarter of 2024 (Q4 2024), with the electricity production index declining by 1.64% year-on-year (y-o-y).

Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says this marks a reversal from the 5.55% growth recorded in the third quarter of 2024 (Q3 2024).

Average estimated electricity generation rose by 2.34% to 4,206.50 megawatts per hour (MW/h) from 4,110.47 MW/h in Q3 2024.

Similarly, electricity consumption saw a modest increase of 2.63%, reaching 4,105.66 MW/h from 4,000.24 MW/h in the preceding quarter.

This is as the Nigerian economy witnessed widespread expansion in the fourth quarter of 2024 (Q4 2024), with 21 out of 22 subsectors recording positive growth.

On a quarter-on-quarter (q-o-q) basis, however, the subsector showed signs of recovery, as the index rose by 22.50% compared to a significant decline of 49.46% in the previous quarter.

The broad-based economic expansion in Q4 2024 can be attributed to several factors, including improved business confidence, increased consumer spending, and enhanced performance in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and telecommunications.

The government’s fiscal and monetary policies, aimed at stabilising inflation and boosting investment, also contributed to the positive momentum.

According to the CBN, the improvement was largely attributed to enhanced gas supply to thermal power stations and the continued implementation of the Siemens Power Project, which has positively impacted power generation, transmission, and distribution networks.

Notably, the oil and gas sector benefited from relatively stable crude oil prices and improved domestic production, which provided a boost to overall economic output.

The data also stated that the non-oil sector, particularly fintech and digital services, also played a significant role in driving economic activities.

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Rivers Will Emerge Stronger From Political Crisis, Says Fubara

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Governor Siminalayi Fubara speaking when he received Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic-based groups in Port Harcourt.

Suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents that the ongoing political crisis in the state will ultimately strengthen the people rather than weaken them.

Fubara made this statement when he received Muslim leaders from 20 Islamic-based groups, including the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, at his private residence in Port Harcourt during an Eid-El-Fitr Sallah visit.

Addressing the delegation, Governor Fubara urged them and his supporters to trust in God’s process, saying: “This season is one of love, sharing, and sacrifice. You have come to share in our pain and have made a great sacrifice through your prayers. As Christians, we believe that everything happens for a purpose, and I strongly believe that this situation is leading us toward a greater purpose.”

He acknowledged that the current political tension might leave many feeling depressed but emphasised that supernatural forces may be at play beyond human understanding.

“No matter what we see, we must remain steadfast. In all things, we give glory to Almighty God. I believe that in the end, we will emerge stronger,” he added.

He reaffirmed his commitment to justice and equality, stressing that his administration envisions a society where no one is oppressed.

“We believe in egalitarianism, and if our beliefs bring us some pain, so be it. The most important thing is that we stand on the side of truth and righteousness,” he stated.

He regretted that he was unable to formally reach out to the Muslim community during their celebrations but promised that the relationship between religious groups and the government would be strengthened once the current uncertainties are resolved.

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He also assured the leaders that their pending requests would be addressed after the crisis subsides.

Urging patience and perseverance, Governor Fubara drew an analogy from religious history, saying, “If God could be patient with Noah to allow even the snail to enter the Ark, then patience remains an essential virtue in our struggle.”

He also cautioned against falling prey to those who want engineer violence by fanning provocative acts, warning his supporters and Rivers people to avoid certain elements who sought to destabilize the state.

“Their goal is to create problems and deny people their means of livelihood. We will not allow that. We will continue to operate peacefully and respect constitutional authority to ensure that our state remains a model for others in Nigeria,” he concluded.

Speaking earlier on behalf of the Muslim community, Alhaji Nasir Awhelebe Uhor, declared their solidarity with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, assuring him of their prayers and support as he navigates the state’s current political challenges.

Alhaji Uhor stated that the majority of Muslims in Rivers State stand with Governor Fubara due to his inclusive approach to governance and his recognition of the Islamic faith.

He noted that unlike the previous administration that declared Rivers a 100% Christian state, Governor Fubara, upon assuming office, acknowledged the state as Christian majority while allowing room for inclusiveness.

Encouraging the governor to remain steadfast, Uhor reminded him of the Islamic belief that Allah rewards patience.

He said the present challenges align with the teachings of Islam, where the Creator tests His people through wealth, power, and authority.

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He further called on President Bola Tinubu to review the emergency rule in Rivers State and restore Governor Fubara’s full authority, emphasizing that the governor has been performing effectively despite the crisis.

During the visit, prayers were offered for suspended Governor Fubara, his family, Rivers State, and Nigeria as a whole.

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Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso Enforce 0.5% Import Levy On ECOWAS Nations

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The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) comprising junta-led Mali, Niger Republic, and Burkina Faso have imposed a 0.5 percent import duty on goods from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member nations.

The move further strains relations between the three junta-led nations and the ECOWAS, which they withdrew from earlier this year following a series of military coups and economic sanctions.

The AES, which began as a security pact between the military rulers of the three countries in 2023, has now metamorphosed into an aspiring economic union with plans for biometric passports and closer economic and military ties.

In a joint statement last week, the AES said the levy aims to generate revenue to fund the alliance’s activities.

The tax, which came into effect on Friday, applies to all imports from ECOWAS countries, except humanitarian aid.

The taxes also disrupt the free trade once enjoyed by all countries in the West African region.

The economic implications could be severe, leading to higher consumer prices, supply chain disruptions, and strained regional economic stability.

While it may provide short-term revenue for the junta-led governments, it risks other long-term consequences, including weakened regional integration.

ECOWAS has maintained that it will keep diplomatic channels open with the junta-led states until July, despite announcing their permanent expulsion from the bloc earlier this year.

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