House of Representatives Visit Highlights Dadin Kowa Hydropower Plant’s Strategic Importance in Nigeria’s Power Sector

Juliet Akoje In Abuja

A recent oversight inspection by the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee on Power Sector Reforms at the Dadin Kowa Hydropower Plant brought attention to the facility’s strong operational efficiency and its increasing role in enhancing power quality and reliability across Nigeria’s electricity grid.

During the tour, Committee members described the project as a solid example of successful private sector involvement in power infrastructure, while also acknowledging its meaningful contribution to ongoing reforms within the sector.

The 40MW hydropower plant, developed and managed by Mabon Limited under a Build, Operate and Transfer (BoT) arrangement, is presently producing about 17MW, in line with current seasonal water conditions.

The facility maintains an availability rate of roughly 98%, with its output largely influenced by hydrological factors rather than technical limitations.

As is typical of reservoir-based hydropower plants worldwide, electricity generation rises significantly during periods of increased water inflow, allowing the plant to operate at its full installed capacity.

Since it began commercial operations in December 2021, the plant has supplied more than 750 million kilowatt-hours of clean energy to the national grid, establishing it as one of Nigeria’s key privately developed renewable energy assets.

In addition to power generation, the Dadin Kowa plant has played a vital role in improving voltage stability and overall grid performance in the North-East region.

Its strategic location and consistent output have strengthened power quality and reliability, which are critical to driving industrial and economic growth, including projects like the nearby Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park.

The facility has also shown strong operational resilience during periods of broader grid disruptions. In certain instances, it can support localized electricity supply, helping to sustain essential economic activities when the national transmission network experiences instability.

Lawmakers also highlighted the complementary infrastructure developed alongside the project, such as transmission and evacuation systems that ensure efficient power distribution.

The plant operates under a fully executed concession, duly approved and commissioned by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Overall, Dadin Kowa continues to exemplify how well-structured, privately executed infrastructure projects can enhance grid stability and contribute to the long-term growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s power sector.