Minister Adelabu Commits to Resolving Compensation Claims for Zungeru Hydropower Project
The Federal Government, through the minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu, has pledged to fully compensate communities displaced by the construction of the 700-megawatt Zungeru Hydro Power Plant in Niger State. The commitment was made by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, during a meeting with the Compensation and Resettlement Committee of the Zungeru Power Plant, led by the Deputy Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Yakubu Garba. Adelabu emphasized the need to properly identify the affected communities, as over 300 communities have presented compensation claims, although only 133 were initially identified by the Ministry of Power.
Adelabu also expressed his concerns over the unexpected inclusion of more than 200 additional communities in the claims process, which was not part of the original agreement. While the Federal Government remains committed to compensating the affected communities, the minister urged those involved to be sincere and reasonable in their claims. He reminded the committee and the host communities that the Zungeru Power Plant is a national asset that benefits all Nigerians, and cooperation is essential in ensuring a fair process.
The minister praised the efforts of the Niger State Government, particularly Governor Umaru Bago and his deputy, for their positive intervention in managing the situation. He highlighted that 90 percent of those affected by the project have already been compensated, and the government remains committed to ensuring that even those few left to be compensated will receive their due payments. Adelabu also acknowledged the importance of Niger State in the country’s energy sector, given that it hosts several major hydro-power stations.
The deputy governor of Niger State also expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s efforts and assured that the communities would be guided to resolve any outstanding issues peacefully. He added that the state government has been actively involved in ensuring that the affected communities refrain from taking legal action, and those misled into doing so will be encouraged to withdraw their cases. The deputy governor assured that the state government is fully committed to the success of the project and will continue to collaborate with the Federal Government to resolve the compensation and resettlement issues.
