Plateau Receives Feasibility Report On 2.4 Megawatt Hydro Power Project

Plateau State governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has taken a bold step industrialise the state by addressing longstanding energy challenges with the presentation of a feasibility study report for the proposed 2.4-megawatt hydropower project at Assop Falls by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO).

The report was presented to Governor Mutfwang alongside the deputy governor, Ngo Josephine Piyo and other government officials, yesterday at the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos.

LEADERSHIP reports that the event marked a major milestone in the administration’s efforts to reposition state as a hub for sustainable energy, industrial growth, and economic transformation.

During the presentation, Governor Mutfwang described the project as a strategic intervention capable of transforming the state’s economic fortunes through a stable electricity supply for industries, agro-processing, and productive enterprises.

He disclosed that the Plateau State Government has already committed over N1.5 billion toward the initiative.

The Governor further revealed that UNIDO has pledged approximately $2 million in additional support toward the project, which has an estimated total cost of about $6 million.

According to him, the hydro power initiative represents more than electricity generation; it embodies a broader vision to position Plateau State as a net producer and supplier of energy within the region.

“Generating 2.4 megawatts of electricity is no small achievement. It can power industries and stimulate economic growth,” Governor Mutfwang stated, adding that, “ur ambition is to become a net seller of energy.”

He noted that the ongoing deregulation of Nigeria’s electricity sector has created new opportunities for states willing to invest in energy infrastructure.

Governor Mutfwang also highlighted ongoing reforms and institutional strengthening in the energy sector, including efforts to reposition the Plateau State Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Plateau State Energy Corporation to drive innovation, improve regulation, and encourage private-sector participation in power generation and distribution.

The Governor further disclosed that his administration has commenced discussions with investors interested in establishing solar panel manufacturing facilities in Plateau State, while also exploring opportunities to revive and optimise the capacity of the historic NESCO power facility.

According to him, “ESCO can generate close to 30 megawatts once fully restored with the right investments.”

He explained that the administration’s combination of hydro and solar energy initiatives is aimed at ending persistent power outages, accelerating industrialisation, and expanding economic opportunities not only within Plateau State but also across neighbouring communities and states.

Governor Mutfwang directed relevant government agencies to immediately engage with UNIDO on six identified priority areas of collaboration, particularly in energy, agriculture, industrial development, environmental sustainability, and value-chain development. He assured the organisation of the state government’s commitment to fast-tracking the project’s implementation.

Earlier, the UNIDO Country Representative, Albert Abaka Johnson, commended Governor Mutfwang for what he described as exemplary leadership in security management, infrastructural development, economic growth, and inclusive industrialisation.

Johnson noted that the project aligns with UUNIDO’s mandate under Sustainable Development Goal 9 and expressed optimism that the hydro power project, which the European Union also supports, would be completed within 24 months once implementation begins.