FG, AfDB Collaborate On Hydropower Advancement

The Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and Ministry of Power, with the support from the African Development Bank (AfDB), is championing the advancement of hydropower generation in the country.
Minister of State, Water Resources and Sanitation, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Bello Goronyo, disclosed this at the World Hydropower Outlook Summit tagged: “Advancing Sustainable Growth, Hydropower Africa,” held in Abuja.

The minister who said the collaboration was aimed at advancing hydropower in the country and laying a solid foundation for sustainable energy development and economic growth, highlighted the diverse potentials of hydropower, including its capacity to boost economic growth, enhance access to electricity and propel social development across the continent.

He underscored the ministry’s dedication to enhancing efficiency in electricity generation, transmission and distribution through the operation of hydropower dams across the nation.

Goronyo highlighted Nigeria’s launch of the Gazette of the National Energy Policy and National Energy Master Plan, paving the way for enhanced energy sufficiency crucial for driving rapid industrialisation and securing food production.

He announced the development of hydropower sites capable of generating approximately 14,000 megawatts of electricity.

According to him, these sites encompass both major and micro power installations strategically located nationwide, aiming to ensure sustainable power for all by 2030.

He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to enhancing power generation through the concessioning of Gurara, Kashimbilla and Dadin-Kowa hydropower dams.

The minister described hydropower as a beacon of hope, heralding a future where clean energy will not only fuel progress but also ignite economic prosperity and brighter future for the country.

Goronyo cautioned that while pursuing hydropower, careful evaluation of its environmental and social impacts on ecosystems and host communities is necessary and called for comprehensive environmental impact assessments, robust mitigation measures, and meaningful stakeholders engagement.

He stressed that Africa has found itself at a critical juncture in harnessing hydropower opportunities amid challenges, and urged the urgent need for energy security and environmental sustainability.

Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, stated that President Bola Tinubu had significantly empowered the power sector by signing the Electricity Act of 2023.

He added that the legislation had shifted the control of power generation, transmission and distribution from the exclusive to the concurrent list, thereby laying the groundwork for the country to achieve SDG 7 through the National Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan.