by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Plateau’s State Governor, Barr Caleb Mutfwang, has taken another bold step towards industrializing Plateau State and addressing longstanding energy challenges, with the presentation of the official Feasibility Study Report for the proposed 2.4 megawatt Small Hydro Power Project at Assop Falls by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
The feasibility report was presented to Governor Mutfwang, alongside the Deputy Governor, Ngo Josephine Piyo, and government officials on Tuesday, at the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, marking a significant milestone in the administration’s efforts to reposition Plateau State as a “hub for sustainable energy, industrial growth, and economic transformation.”
Speaking during the presentation, Governor Mutfwang described the project as a “strategic intervention” capable of transforming the economic fortunes of the state through stable electricity supply for industries, agro-processing, and productive enterprises.
He disclosed that the Plateau State Government has already committed over ₦1.5 billion towards the initiative.
The governor further revealed that UNIDO has pledged additional support of approximately $2 million towards the project, which has an estimated total cost of about $6 million.
According to him, the hydro-power initiative represents more than electricity generation – it embodies a broader vision to position Plateau State as a net producer and supplier of energy within the region.
“Generating 2.4 megawatts of electricity is no small achievement. It can power industries and stimulate economic growth,” Mutfwang stated.
“Our ambition is to become a net seller of energy. The ongoing deregulation of Nigeria’s electricity sector has created new opportunities for states willing to invest in energy infrastructure,” the governor disclosed.
He also highlighted ongoing reforms and institutional strengthening within the energy sector, including efforts to reposition the Plateau State Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Plateau State Energy Corporation to drive innovation, improve regulation, and encourage private sector participation in power generation and distribution.
The governor further disclosed that his administration has commenced discussions with investors interested in establishing solar panel manufacturing facilities in the State, while also exploring opportunities to revive and optimize the capacity of the historic NESCO power facility, and revealed that, “NESCO can generate close to 30 megawatts once fully restored with the right investments.”
He explained that the combination of hydro and solar energy initiatives being pursued by the administration is aimed at ending persistent power outages, accelerating industrialization, and expanding economic opportunities not only within Plateau State but also across neighbouring communities and states.
While the governor further directed relevant government agencies to immediately engage with UNIDO on six identified priority areas of collaboration, particularly in energy, agriculture, industrial development, environmental sustainability, and value-chain development, he also assured the organization of the State Government’s commitment to fast-track implementation of the project.
Speaking earlier, UNIDO Country Representative, Albert Abaka Johnson, commended Governor Mutfwang for what he described as “exemplary leadership” in security management, infrastructural development, economic growth, and inclusive industrialization.
Mr. Johnson noted that the project aligns with UNIDO’s mandate under Sustainable Development Goal 9, and expressed optimism that the hydro-power project, which is also supported by the European Union, would be completed within 24 months once implementation begins.