The Federal Government has made a significant pledge to compensate communities displaced by the ongoing Zungeru Hydro Power Project in Niger State. The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that those affected by the 700-megawatt project are adequately compensated, urging transparency and cooperation from all parties involved.
In a recent meeting in Abuja with the Compensation and Resettlement Committee of the Zungeru Power Plant, which is chaired by Niger State’s Deputy Governor, Alhaji Yakubu Garba, Minister Adelabu expressed the government’s firm resolve to meet its obligations despite emerging challenges.
“The Zungeru Hydro Power Project is a national asset,” Adelabu emphasized. “We are fully committed to the resettlement and compensation of those affected, and I want to assure everyone that the Federal Government will honor its obligations, even if it means compensating just one person left out,” he said, highlighting the importance of the project for Nigeria’s energy needs.
However, the process has not been without its challenges. The Minister expressed concern over the increased number of communities now claiming compensation, which has grown from the initial 133 to over 300. “This situation is a bit surprising, and we need to ensure that only the communities directly affected by the power plant are compensated,” Adelabu remarked, stressing that the federal government must validate these claims.
The project, which has already displaced many local residents for the construction of a massive power plant, has been marked by disputes over the compensation process. More than 200 communities recently added to the list of those requesting resettlement have raised concerns about the fairness of the procedure. Adelabu pleaded for clarity on which communities are truly impacted, acknowledging the complexity of managing such a large-scale infrastructure project.
In the same vein, the Minister lauded the commitment of the Niger State Government, particularly the intervention of Governor Umaru Bago. Adelabu praised the Governor for his proactive stance in ensuring the affected communities’ cooperation with the federal authorities.
“The cooperation between the Federal Government and the state government, particularly the positive efforts of Governor Bago, is commendable,” Adelabu said. “His intervention has ensured that the situation does not escalate further, and we are working towards an amicable resolution.”
In response, Deputy Governor Garba assured that the Niger State Government remains fully engaged in resolving the situation and has been in constant communication with the affected communities. He confirmed that any legal challenges made by the communities will be addressed, ensuring that the claims process remains fair.
“We are happy to report that those who initially resorted to legal action will be advised to withdraw their cases,” Garba said, emphasizing the state’s commitment to the peaceful resolution of the matter. “Governor Bago is determined to ensure the success of this power project, and this is why he asked me to take charge of the compensation committee.”
The Federal Government, which has already allocated N22 billion in compensation, confirmed that approximately 90 percent of the displaced persons have been compensated. However, the outstanding N2.2 billion is still under review, and new figures presented by the communities will be carefully verified.
Adelabu acknowledged the fiscal constraints the government is currently facing. “We are dealing with a national economy that is burdened by competing demands,” he said. “While we are committed to compensating everyone who rightfully deserves it, we must also consider the financial realities at hand.”
Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Power is hopeful that it can resolve all outstanding compensation claims as quickly as possible. The minister stressed that the communities should exercise patience, given the complexities of validating claims and the government’s limited resources.
The Zungeru Hydro Power Project, when completed, will contribute significantly to Nigeria’s energy needs. It is part of the country’s broader strategy to boost power generation, which includes the development of several hydroelectric plants. The power station is expected to provide sustainable electricity to millions of Nigerians, which will also stimulate local economic growth.
Niger State, which already hosts major hydro-power facilities such as Jebba, Kainji, and Shiroro, plays a critical role in Nigeria’s energy infrastructure. With four out of the country’s five largest hydroelectric plants situated in the state, the local government has long been a key player in the energy sector. Despite the vital role the state plays in powering the nation, communities like those around Zungeru have had to bear the brunt of development projects.
Adelabu acknowledged this sacrifice, saying, “The role of Niger State in Nigeria’s energy sector cannot be overstated. We are fully aware of the significance of these communities’ contributions, and we are committed to ensuring that their rights are protected as part of our national development goals.”
While the government and local leaders are working together to resolve the dispute, the affected communities remain in limbo, with many anxiously awaiting the completion of the compensation process. The Federal Government has promised to do everything within its power to ensure that the promises made to these communities are fulfilled without further delay.
In conclusion, the Federal Government’s commitment to compensating the displaced communities is a positive step towards resolving the ongoing issue surrounding the Zungeru Power Project. With continued cooperation between federal and state authorities, as well as transparency and fairness in the claims process, the remaining displaced persons can hopefully look forward to the prompt resolution of their compensation claims. The success of this project is vital not only to those directly affected but also to Nigeria’s overall progress in securing a reliable and sustainable energy future.
