Power: Group calls for establishment of HYPPADEC

The federal government has been urged to hasten the process of establishing Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPADEC) to cater for host communities of hydro power plants in the country.

The National Youth Movement for the Creation of Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission, led by its National President, Malam Jibril Abdullahi Muregi, made the call during a recent visit to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) headquarters in Abuja.

NERC, in a statement issued by the Head of its Public Affairs, Dr. USman Abba Arabi, said the delegation was at NERC on a courtesy visit in order to garner support for the establishment of HYPPADEC and to declare their readiness to partner with NERC on the development of their communities.

Muregi, in his address, listed some key areas they solicit for the Commission’s support to include the provision of water resources for the communities affected by power projects, and providing skills acquisition programmes for the host indigenes.

Other requests they made were for the employment of indigenous peoples by the successor companies, lower tariff class for those in the HYPPADEC region and the take-off of HYPPADEC.

The group, which has representatives from six states, Kebbi, Plateau, Benue, Kwara, Kogi and Niger was formed in 2008 to sensitise and encourage youths towards the establishment of HYPPADEC.

The group has made considerable contributions towards the passage of the HYPPADEC bill by the 6th National Assembly and assented to by President Jonathan in August 2010.

NERC Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi stated that the Commission was well aware of their plight and has already put in place proactive measures for HYPPADEC to take-off.