***Governor Bago Signs Electricity Bill into Law
By Our Correspondent, Minna
The Niger State Government(NGSG)has announced plans to convert the iconic Gurara Waterfalls into a hydro-electric dam as part of its strategy to achieve independent power generation.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago disclosed this during a meeting with key stakeholders and council members at Gawu Babangida, headquarters of Gurara Local Government Area, during his statewide project monitoring tour.
According to the governor, the hydro-electric project will position Gurara Local Government Area as an electricity-generating hub, enhancing economic activities and creating employment opportunities for the youth.
This development is coming after the recent assent to the Niger State Electricity Bill by Governor Bago at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Minna.
The legislation, known as “The Niger State Power Sector Law 2024,” establishes frameworks for independent power generation and distribution within the state.
The law provides for the creation of the Niger State Electricity Regulatory Commission, Niger State Electricity Company and
Niger State Electricity Agency
It also covers various aspects of intra-state electricity, including generation, transmission, trading, distribution, retail supply, rural electrification, and the establishment of a state electricity market.
Operations under the new law commenced on December 19, 2024.
Governor Bago emphasized the strategic importance of Gurara Local Government Area, citing its vast potentials.
He assured stakeholders that his administration is committed to fully harnessing these opportunities for the benefit of the people.
Other planned projects in the area included an additional 5-kilometer road in Izom, Completion of the 45-kilometer Izom-Gwagwalada road connecting the Federal Capital Territory, Development of the Gurara Games Resort and Construction of a ₦120 million modern trailer park to ease traffic on the Minna-Suleja road.
Others are the provision of potable water through partnerships and the Establishment of a green energy park under a tripartite arrangement.
Deputy Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Afiniki Dauda, and Gurara Council Chairman, Abdul-Halim Abubakar, commended Governor Bago for his commitment to developing the area.
They expressed gratitude for the ongoing projects and pledged their support for the administration’s initiatives.
The ambitious plan aligns with Niger State’s broader goals of enhancing energy security, driving economic growth, and improving the livelihoods of its citizens.