The National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has formally requested a stronger working relationship with the Taraba State Government. The aim is to jointly address the persistent environmental and socio-economic difficulties faced by communities hosting hydroelectric power facilities.
Commission's Appeal for Enhanced Partnership
This appeal was delivered directly to Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas in Jalingo on Thursday by the Commission's Managing Director, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa. Yelwa led a delegation on a courtesy visit, which he described as part of a familiarisation tour to states newly admitted into the N-HYPPADEC framework.
He recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the inclusion of Taraba, Kaduna, Gombe, and Nasarawa States into the Commission in June 2023. This expansion officially recognises the long-term ecological and social burdens these areas bear due to hosting dams and power plants.
Taraba's Strategic Role and Completed Projects
Yelwa emphasised Taraba State's critical importance to Nigeria's energy sector, noting it hosts the Kashimbila Hydropower Plant and is situated within the strategic Mambilla Plateau hydropower corridor.
He provided a detailed account of interventions already executed in the state since 2024:
- Establishment of a N-HYPPADEC state office in Jalingo.
- Installation of 34 solar-powered streetlights in riverine communities and the state capital.
- Construction of 15 solar-powered boreholes to improve access to clean water.
- Distribution of 32 power tiller machines to farming cooperatives.
- Provision of two flying boats for the Lau–Karim Lamido and Ibi–Wukari routes to boost emergency response.
- Desilting of blocked drainages and culverts covering approximately 40,000 linear metres across several LGAs to control flooding.
- Supply and installation of transformers in parts of Jalingo.
- Payment of NECO examination fees for students from host communities.
Areas for Future Collaboration and Governor's Response
While acknowledging these achievements, the Managing Director stressed the necessity for a deeper, more integrated collaboration with the state government. Key focus areas include flood control, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.
He also sought Governor Kefas's guidance in identifying suitable locations for N-HYPPADEC area offices within communities directly impacted by hydroelectric operations.
In his response, Governor Agbu Kefas welcomed the delegation and assured them of the Taraba State Government's full support. He pledged to provide all necessary assistance to enable the Commission to effectively deliver on its developmental mandate for the benefit of the state's affected communities.
