FG Hands Over Kashimbila Dam To Concessionaire

The Federal Government yesterday transferred the Kashimbila Dam to KP Hydro Limited through a concession agreement aimed at augmenting Nigeria's renewable energy capacity.

Governor Agbu Kefas, General T.Y. Danjuma (rtd.), Senator Jimkuta,Hon Jafarau Ciroma,traditional leaders, and other top government officials attended the ceremony at the dam site.

The Kashimbila Dam, constructed during former President Jonathan's administration, was initiated to prevent flooding caused by water releases from Cameroon and has evolved into a vital source of clean energy for Taraba State, thanks to General T.Y. Danjuma's championing.

The 40-megawatt hydroelectric plant is expected to enhance electricity supply and stimulate economic growth.

Sola Arifayan, Managing Director of KP Hydro Limited, expressed gratitude in his remarks for the support received throughout the concession process. He attributed this achievement to hard work and perseverance, and expressed gratitude to the host community, while looking forward to the plant's further development.

He assured the community of KP Hydro’s long-term commitment, stating, "We are here not just to do business but to be a part of this community’s growth."

Governor Kefas described the concession as a major step forward for Taraba’s energy sector. “The Kashimbila Power Plant will not only serve the host community but will also benefit the entire state. This is a critical part of our efforts to ensure clean, renewable energy for all,” he said. The governor also mentioned the recent establishment of the Taraba State Electricity Regulatory Agency, which will manage energy generation in the state.

Kefas recommended that KP Hydro Limited work jointly with the Ministry of Energy and Economic Development in Taraba State to optimize the plant's capacity and explore additional energy avenues in the state.

Chairman of Kashimbila Hydro Limited, Mallam Musa Bello, lauded General T.Y. Danjuma's contribution to the project's success, and stressed the value of collaborative public-private initiatives.

During her speech, Commissioner for energy and economic development, Engr. Naomi Tanko Agbu lauded Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas for his visionary leadership and transformative impact on the state's energy landscape.

She highlighted the governor's recent signing of the Taraba State Electricity Regulatory Agency bill into law as a major milestone. "This is a game-changer for Taraba State," she said. 

"We are not just taking a step forward in terms of energy generation, but in regulatory management as well. The Kashimbila Power Plant will be a source of clean, renewable energy that will benefit our communities and drive economic growth."

According to the Commissioner, effective collaboration between KP Hydro Limited and the Ministry of Energy and Economic Development is essential. "We are committed to supporting this project to ensure its success and to working with all stakeholders to realize its full potential," she added.


General T.Y. Danjuma noted in his address that the Kashimbilla Dam is Taraba State's largest federal government investment, thanking the federal government for its support and acknowledging the crucial roles of Mallam Musa Bello and KP Hydro Limited's Chairman, Mr. Thomas Etuh, in securing the concession.

The event marks a new chapter in Taraba's journey towards energy sustainability, bringing hopes of long-term economic benefits and improved livelihoods for its people.


©️Nelson Dimas

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