FG to Transform 21 Dams into Hydro Power Projects

The Federal Government of Nigeria is developing a policy to convert 21 idle dams discovered along the Sokoto-Badagry Road into commercially viable small-scale hydro projects. Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe announced this initiative in Abuja during the launch of the Renewable Energy Asset Management Company.

He stated that the discovery of these dams during road construction raised concerns about their long-term abandonment. Under the directive of President Bola Tinubu, the government aims to utilize these facilities as part of broader efforts to optimize public assets and enhance electricity distribution.

Tegbe mentioned plans to connect stranded power assets to areas in need, specifically in Lagos, Kano, and Borno. The government is also focusing on grid stabilization by identifying three major energy zones: the Lagos axis, Abuja-Kaduna-Kano, and Enugu-Port Harcourt.

Technical audits are underway to assess the condition of existing infrastructure, with plans to replace outdated equipment. The government intends to leverage these assets for funding without selling them.