EU, UNIDO Train Stakeholders on Small Hydropower Initiative to Enhance Agriculture

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), supported by the European Union (EU), conducted a capacity-building workshop in Gombe, Nigeria, to educate local stakeholders about utilizing small hydropower in farming. The workshop aimed to promote clean energy in rural areas and bolster the local food industry. A case study featured the Balanga Dam Small Hydropower Project (SHP), which drew participants from both public and private sectors in the renewable energy field.

UNIDO’s Representative and Sub-regional Director, Ambassador Philbert Johnson, addressed the attendees and emphasized the importance of SHP as a viable means of electricity generation and economic growth. He highlighted Nigeria's vast renewable energy potential, particularly in hydropower, which could address climate change and provide electricity access.

Johnson pointed out that Nigeria possesses approximately 24,000 MW of total hydropower potential, with small hydropower contributing around 3,500 MW. He stressed the importance of developing strategies to overcome existing gaps and incorporate international best practices.

The workshop was organized by UNIDO in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Power, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Rural Electrification Agency, and key states, such as Gombe, where power plants would be located. Johnson emphasized the workshop’s aim to raise awareness among policymakers, project developers, and financial institutions regarding the feasibility of small hydropower in electricity generation and economic development.

Ambassador Johnson explained that the choice of Gombe state for the workshop showcased the state's commitment to advancing clean technologies to boost energy security and economic development. He highlighted the Balanga Dam SHP as more than just an energy infrastructure initiative; it offers an opportunity to examine optimizing water resources to support economic transformation, improve livelihoods, and strengthen energy security.

Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, the Deputy Governor of Gombe State, praised the EU delegation, UNIDO, the Global Environment Facility, and the Rural Electrification Agency for their contributions to the project. He stated that the Balanga Dam SHP is crucial to the state, as it generates clean electricity, aids irrigation, water supply, flood control, and provides livelihood opportunities for its inhabitants.

Jatau reiterated the state government's commitment to completing the project and integrating SHP development into its rural electrification and irrigation master plan, ensuring community ownership to protect and sustain the project's benefits.