In a move that promises to transform the electricity landscape of Taraba State, former Defence Minister, General Theophilus Yakubu (T.Y) Danjuma, has taken on the concession of the Kashimbila Hydro Electricity Dam. Speaking at the dam’s formal concession ceremony in Kashimbilla, Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State, Danjuma shared his vision for the project, emphasizing that the real journey toward electrifying the region has just begun.
Danjuma acknowledged the optimism expressed by some locals but cautioned that the journey to achieving stable electricity would not be immediate. He pointed out that while the dam has the capacity to generate significant power, the current infrastructure in Takum and surrounding areas is not yet capable of handling the high voltage output. “The power generated by the dam is too strong for the weak installations in the region,” Danjuma explained, noting that many homes still rely on old, inadequate wiring systems that could pose fire risks when connected to the dam’s full power output.
Danjuma stressed that the entire state would need to be “rewired” to fully optimize the power from the dam, indicating that the project would be long-term and gradual. Despite these challenges, work is already underway to begin the electrification of areas that will benefit from the dam.
The Kashimbilla Dam, originally a Federal Government project, is set to be operated by a consortium led by Danjuma’s company. The project not only includes the hydroelectric dam but also an airport and a five-star hotel, which are expected to turn the area into a tourism hub.
This concession is seen as a major boost for the development of infrastructure in Taraba State and signals hope for a future of stable electricity and economic development in the region. With the backing of Danjuma, a respected military and business leader, there is widespread optimism that this project could pave the way for further advancements in Taraba’s energy sector.
This development aligns with broader efforts to improve Nigeria’s energy capacity, particularly in rural and underdeveloped regions.
Peoplesmind