The construction of Africa’s second-largest hydroelectric plant is still shrouded in mystery despite its commencement eight years ago. The mega $5 billion Mambila Hydroelectric power project has not yet been completed since its inception in 2017. In 2017, the government of Nigeria announced the award of a contract to build what will be the largest power plant in the country. A consortium would deliver the 3,050-megawatt Mambila hydroelectric power project in Taraba to Chinese state-owned construction firms. The federal government also noted that the megaproject would feature four dams between 50 and 150 meters tall. They also indicated that it would take six years to complete. Eight years later, after its inception and expected timeline due, the project is nowhere near completion. This has aroused curiosity in some of Nigeria’s political leaders who seek answers to the mystery.
The State of Affairs Regarding Africa’s Second Largest Hydroelectric Plant
The mystery of Africa’s second-largest hydroelectric plant has made Nigeria’s senate ask hard questions. Leaders in the Senate are curious to understand why the Federal government has not issued any updates on the project. The Federal government has shown a commendable approach to addressing the issues that hinder the project, but more is needed. The Senate notes that the government has been stalling and playing mind games with Nigerians on the project’s expedition. Early in 2021, the government declared that all the financial and legal hurdles hindering the smooth take-off of the Mambila Hydro Electric Power projects had been resolved. Furthermore, they noted that the contractors were expected to mobilize men and materials to the site before the end of the year. However, three years after this announcement, there has still been little to no progress on the project.
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Mambilla Hydropower Project timeline and all you need to know
The Potential of the Mega $5B Mambila Hydroelectric Power Project Upon Completion
The potential that Africa’s second-largest hydroelectric plant would have in Nigeria and West Africa as a region is immense. The Mambila hydroelectric power project is needed to facilitate Nigeria’s electricity output. The country has recently been facing several power crises, and the completion of the plant would help address this problem. Furthermore, the project would connect many of Nigeria’s to a sustainable electric grid once completed. It would also generate clean, green energy in Nigeria and neighboring West African countries. In his motion, Senator Manu believes sustaining efforts to revive and implement the Mambila Hydro Power Project in Taraba State is essential. This is because it would end the country’s age-long electricity challenges.
President Tinubu’s Legacy may Lie in Succeeding Where his Predecessor Left.
The Senate has urged His Excellency President Bola Tinubu to make the completion of Africa’s second-largest hydroelectric dam part of his legacy. The president has rolled out some significant projects since assuming office as the country’s president. Some have received accolades, such as the 1000-km Sokoto-Badagry Coastal Highway, which will revolutionize Nigeria’s transport system. The Senate, however, urges the president to take the Mambila hydroelectric power project under his wing. Senators in support of the motion believe the fulfillment of the project will serve as a gateway to tap into other economic benefits. It will also ensure the growth and development of the country.
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