The National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration with the Taraba State Government to effectively address the environmental and socio- economic issues faced by communities that generate power.
This appeal was made on Thursday by Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, the Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, during a courtesy visit to Governor Agbu Kefas in Jalingo.
Yelwa reaffirmed the Commission's dedication to promoting sustainable development in Taraba State, indicating that this visit was part of a familiarization tour for states that were recently included in N-HYPPADEC's mandate in June 2023 under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.
He pointed out that the expansion strategy aims to address the persistent environmental and social issues faced by localities that host hydroelectric facilities.
Yelwa identified Taraba, Kaduna, Gombe, and Nasarawa as the states recently admitted into the Commission, explaining that N-HYPPADEC was formed to combat ecological degradation, flooding, erosion, displacement, and disruptions to livelihoods that often accompany hydroelectric dam operations, while also fostering sustainable growth in these affected regions.
Highlighting Taraba's crucial role in Nigeria's energy landscape, Yelwa stated that the state is home to the Kashimbila Hydropower Plant and is situated within the Mambilla Plateau hydropower corridor.
He noted that since 2024, N-HYPPADEC has undertaken various initiatives in Taraba, which include the establishment of a state office in Jalingo, the installation of 34 solar-powered streetlights in both riverine areas and the state capital, as well as the construction of 15 solar-powered boreholes to improve access to clean water.
Other notable interventions comprise the distribution of 32 power tiller machines to agricultural cooperatives, the provision of two flying boats to enhance emergency response and transportation along the Lau–Karim Lamido and Ibi–Wukari routes, and the clearing of blocked drainage systems covering approximately 40,000 linear meters across several local government areas to reduce flooding.
Additionally, Yelwa mentioned that the Commission has supplied and installed transformers in parts of Jalingo and has contributed to education by covering NECO external examination fees for students from power-producing communities.
Acknowledging the progress made so far, he stressed the necessity for a deeper partnership with the state government, particularly in areas such as flood management, infrastructure enhancement, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.
He also sought the governor's assistance in pinpointing appropriate sites for N-HYPPADEC field offices in communities that are directly affected by hydroelectric activities.
In his reply, Governor Kefas welcomed the N-HYPPADEC delegation, assuring them of the full support from the Taraba State Government to facilitate the Commission's effective operation within the state.
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