FG Pays N22 Billion to Displaced Communities in Zungeru Hydroelectric Project

The Federal Government has paid N22 billion as compensation to communities displaced by the 700-megawatt hydroelectric power project in Zungeru, Niger State, according to the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu. Adelabu made this announcement during a meeting with the Compensation and Resettlement Committee of the Zungeru power plant in Abuja.

The minister also assured that funds would be released to compensate communities that are still awaiting payment, amounting to approximately N2.2 billion. He explained that while the original plan had identified 133 communities for compensation or resettlement, that number has now increased to over 300 communities.

“We have successfully paid N22 billion in compensation so far. However, according to our records, there is still N2.2 billion remaining for payment,” Adelabu said. He further emphasized that some new claims had been presented, but the ministry would need to verify the updated figures before proceeding with any additional payments.

While acknowledging the government’s financial challenges, Adelabu urged patience and understanding, noting that the federal government has limited resources to address various competing priorities. “Let us all bear in mind that the Federal Government is facing a paucity of funds, and we must allocate resources according to available revenue,” he added.

Adelabu also expressed surprise at the increased number of communities now seeking compensation or resettlement, stressing the importance of verifying the numbers before any new rounds of payments are made. “It is surprising that new communities are being added to the list of those requiring compensation,” he said.

It is worth noting that last year, a court in Minna, Niger State, ordered the federal government to pay a staggering N1.1 trillion in compensation to the displaced communities involved in the Zungeru power plant project.

The continued efforts to compensate these communities reflect the government’s commitment to addressing the social and economic impact of the Zungeru hydroelectric project, even amid financial constraints.