Azikiwe varsity commends Ekwunife over Solar Cosmic Lab project

Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka in Anambra State has commended Senator Uche Ekwunife (PDP Anambra Central) for her contributions to the ongoing construction of an ultra modern Solar Cosmic Laboratory in the institution.

Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Charles Esimone gave the commendation yesterday during an inspection tour of the facility by a delegation led by Senator Ekwunife’s Legislative Aide, Hon. Ifeyinwa Chinwuko.

The project, according to a statement by the media office of the lawmaker, forms part of the numerous infrastructure works and interventions expedition by her a member of the 9th Senate.

Commending Senator Ekwunife for attracting the laboratory to the university, the Vice Chancellor, represented by his deputy in-charge of Academics, Prof. Frederick Odibo noted that “the project will be of great service to the institution particularly with respect to research in the fields of Physics and Engineering.”

The lawmaker, who is the chairman, Senate Committee on Science and Technology, in an address through her representative, said she expedited the project to enhance research and development in cosmic radiation, as well as development of solar powered products in the South-East region and the nation at large.

She added that considering the poor state of power supply in the country with the development of solar power, the over dependence on hydro power and fuel generating plants for electricity will be reduced.

“As Nigeria continues to experience challenges in the power sector and environmental pollution as a result of emissions of generating plants, Solar power will improve access to clean, affordable energy for poor communities.

“When this laboratory is completed and equipped it is believed that the production of Solar powered products and power generation plants will be manufactured to accelerate the shift to solar-based energy inorder to assist to diversify Nigeria’s energy portfolio and reduce high electricity bills. This could also stop the reliance on fossil fuels which come with associated challenges like pollution through flaring and spillage,” Senator Ekwunife stressed.

Earlier, the Students Union Government, SUG President, Comrade Charles Ijeoma described the project as exceptional, applauding Senator Ekwunife for bringing the laboratory to the institution.

Dignitaries present at the occasion, include a member of the Governing Council of the university, Prof. Meschach Umenweke; Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu; Director of Physical Planning Board, Engr. Ralph Okeke, Vice Chairman Association of Accountants, Anambra State Branch, Prof. Pius Okoye and the Coordinator, Federation of PDP Students, Anambra State Chapter, Chris Onwa Maju, among others.