Gombe: The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), in collaboration with the Gombe State Government, has initiated a capacity-building workshop focused on the development of Small Hydropower (SHP) in Gombe. This initiative is part of a project aimed at advancing the agro-industry in Nigeria, with support from the European Union (EU).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Philbert Johnson, UNIDO’s Representative and Sub-regional Director, highlighted Nigeria’s significant renewable energy potential, including hydropower, solar, wind, and biomass. He noted that the country’s hydropower potential stands at approximately 24,000MW, with small hydropower accounting for about 3,500MW. The workshop’s objective is to raise awareness among policymakers, project developers, and financial institutions about the viability of SHP as a reliable source of electricity and a catalyst for economic development.
Dr. Manassah Jatau, Gombe State Deputy Governor, officially opened the workshop, describing the Balanga Dam Small Hydropower Project as a strategic initiative with the potential to transform the lives of communities within the state and significantly contribute to Nigeria’s renewable energy development. He observed that despite the dam’s inauguration nearly 38 years ago, only 2,200 hectares of its estimated 11,000-hectare irrigation capacity is currently utilized, leaving several potential benefits untapped.
Jatau emphasized the importance of developing the small hydropower component as a model for unlocking Nigeria’s numerous undeveloped small hydropower sites. He assured that the Gombe State Government has provided an enabling environment for the project’s swift completion and plans to integrate small hydropower development into its rural electrification and irrigation strategies.
The deputy governor expressed gratitude to the EU delegation, Global Environment Facility, the Rural Electrification Agency, and other development partners for their support. He urged workshop participants to focus on producing clear, practical, and time-bound actions, rather than letting the initiative become a mere talk shop. The ultimate goal is to alleviate poverty and enhance the standard of living in Balanga and surrounding communities.
The 620kW Balanga Dam Small Hydropower Project served as a case study during the workshop, where participants explored the potential of SHP to improve electricity access, support rural development, and drive agro-industrial activities. The event gathered stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to strengthen capacity for developing and implementing small hydropower projects.