Campus News

Starlink Global donates 90KVA solar inverter, Hillux van to UNILORIN

An indigenous company, Starlink Global & Ideal Ltd, has donated a 90KVA solar inverter to the University of Ilorin to address the electricity challenges facing the institution. The company also donated a Hilux van to enhance the operational capacity of the University.

The solar inverter, which has already been installed at the Administrative Building, was commissioned last Friday (February 6, 2025).

The commissioning ceremony was attended by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, along with other Principal Officers, members of the Committee of Provost and Deans, Directors, and officials of Starlink Global & Ideal Ltd.

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude to the leadership and entire management of Starlink Global & Ideal Ltd for the Company’s Commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its decision to support the University through a project that directly benefits the institution.

               Prof. Egbewole explained the significance of the project to the University, particularly in view of the institution’s ongoing electricity challenges, which became more pronounced in 2024.

The Vice-Chancellor also commended the company for its structured approach to corporate social responsibility, stating, “I also want to appreciate the fact that the company did not just rush into executing the project. They approached us, identified the project of our choice, selected the site, and worked closely with our Works Department to achieve this goal. What this tells us is that one should not simply engage in CSR but should focus on identifying what will benefit the beneficiaries the most. One of our challenges is electricity, especially in 2024, and we resolved to continue providing an alternative power supply. When the discussion started, we did not hesitate to make the request, and Starlink Global & Ideal Ltd graciously approved it. We thank you very much.”

Speaking with UNILORIN Bulletin, the Director of Accounts of Starlink Global & Ideal Ltd, Alhaji Alabi Rahman, stated that the company understands that the government alone cannot cater to the needs of the people. Therefore, businesses and companies must play a role in supporting society, particularly in the education sector.

Alhaji Rahman pointed out that the company recognises the fact that Nigeria faces significant challenges in the education sector, and any support for academic institutions will have a lasting impact. With this in mind, he said Starlink Global & Ideal Ltd prioritised supporting institutions like the University of Ilorin to help them maintain stable operations.

On his part, the Director of Administration of the company, Alhaji Hassan Nurein, lamented the financial burden that increased electricity tariffs has placed on government institutions, especially those recently migrated to Band A tariffs.

Alhaji Nurein pointed out that most government agencies are struggling with the rising cost of electricity, as budget allocations have not increased proportionally. He added that universities, in particular, do not receive additional subventions from the government and cannot impose extra charges on students without causing unrest.

Recognising these challenges, he said that Starlink Global & Ideal Ltd decided to step in and offer support through its CSR initiatives.

When asked why the company chose the University of Ilorin for the project, Alhaji Nurein noted that one of the company’s directors, who hails from Ilorin, played a crucial role in the decision to assist the University. He added that Starlink Global & Ideal Ltd also admires and appreciates the efforts of the University of Ilorin in training thousands of Nigerian youths and saw an opportunity to contribute to its mission.

While reinforcing the importance of alumni involvement in institutional development, the Managing Director of Sovereign Campus Concept Ltd, Mr. Bello Habeeb Olalekan, who facilitated the donation, stated that as an alumnus of the University, he saw the need to give back to his alma mater. He said he presented the idea to his clients, who received it well, leading to the successful execution of the project.

Mr. Olalekan called on other alumni of the University to follow suit by supporting their former institutions. He acknowledged that the challenges students face today are significantly greater than in the past, making external support essential. He also noted that his company, Sovereign Campus Concept Ltd, has been engaging in various CSR activities within the University, including providing financial assistance to indigent students.