By Babajimi Benson Unveils Plan for Solar-Powered Mini-Grids to Ease High Electricity Costs for LASUSTECH Students
Chairman House Committee on Defence representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Honourable Babajimi Benson has announced a plan to introduce solar-powered mini-grids to provide 24/7 electricity to students at Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), Ikorodu.
The initiative is designed to alleviate the high electricity costs currently faced by students living in the area, many of whom are struggling with rent and utility expenses.
This announcement was made during the grand commissioning of the First Gate to Lambo Lasunwon Road, a crucial infrastructure project serving as a key access route for LASUSTECH students, which was commissioned by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadiri Hamzat.
The event also saw the National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Committee (NANS JCC) Lagos Axis, led by Chairman Comrade Alimi Lekan, voice concerns over the rising cost of rent and electricity tariffs in student-dominated areas.
Comrade Alimi expressed appreciation for the newly constructed road, which was facilitated by Honourable Benson, but emphasized the unintended consequences on housing prices. He explained that while the road has improved accessibility, it has also driven up rents, making accommodation unaffordable for many students.
“We’re grateful for the new road, but it’s important to address the housing shortage and rising rent that has come with this development. Students are being priced out of the area, and we need the government and landlords to work with us to find solutions,” Alimi said.
Alimi also raised the issue of exorbitant electricity tariffs, noting that while students benefit from being in Band A, which provides more stable power, the costs are becoming unsustainable. He called on the National Assembly to consider introducing vouchers or discounted electricity rates for students to help reduce their financial burden.
“The electricity tariff is too high for students, even though we’re in Band A. We need relief, whether through subsidies or student-friendly rates, so we can continue to afford the power supply,” he added.
In response, Honourable Babajimi Benson reassured the students that their concerns were being taken seriously. He outlined plans to equip LASUSTECH and other institutions with solar-powered mini-grids, which would provide continuous electricity at a fraction of the current cost. Benson explained that the initiative would cut electricity costs for students by two-thirds, offering significant relief.
“We’re not just focused on Band A or B; we’re working on providing reliable, affordable solar energy to the campuses. This will bring down the cost of electricity drastically, and we’re in discussions with the Lagos electricity distribution company to make this happen. Additionally, we’ll be engaging landlords to address the high rent issues,” Benson stated.
The Honourable also promised to work with local landlords to ensure rent prices in student areas remain affordable, particularly as Ikorodu continues to develop and attract more residents.
Following the event, Comrade Alimi praised Benson’s leadership and dedication to the welfare of students, expressing optimism that the promised initiatives would improve living conditions for students in Ikorodu.
“Honourable Babajimi Benson is a leader to be admired. He has done a lot for Ikorodu, and we’re thankful for his ongoing support for students. We hope his efforts will lead to a better quality of life for students here,” Alimi concluded.
With the development of the solar-powered mini-grids and efforts to control rent prices, students in LASUSTECH look forward to a more affordable and conducive living environment, allowing them to focus on their academic pursuits.
