Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has issued an unequivocal demand to the Federal Government, calling for the allocation of a 13 percent derivation share to Niger State.
Bago’s request stems from the state’s significant contribution to the nation’s electricity supply through its four hydropower dams. They include Kainji, Shiroro, Jebba, and Zungeru Dams.
The Governor has further underscored that cutting off the power supply from these dams is an option on the table if their appeal is not heeded.
Bago made this demand during a meeting with the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, Tijjani Ahmed, who led a delegation to the State Government House in Minna, the state capital.
Governor Bago expressed deep concern about the adverse effects of flooding caused by the operations of these hydroelectric dams, leading to the displacement of numerous residents within the state.
He also called for organizations such as the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited to provide fair compensation to the state in exchange for its contribution to hydrocarbon resources.
Furthermore, Governor Bago emphasized that Niger State has made substantial sacrifices for the nation, including the allocation of its land for the establishment of the national capital, Abuja. Therefore, he stressed the importance of the Federal Government compensating the state accordingly.
In addition, he expressed frustration over the Suleja-Minna road dualization project, which has remained incomplete for the past 12 years. This project is crucial as it serves as a gateway connecting the northern and southern regions of the country. Governor Bago deemed the project’s delayed completion as unacceptable.
Governor Bago made it clear that Niger State will no longer tolerate marginalization and affirmed that they will persistently advocate for their demands until the Federal Government takes appropriate action.