Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
Former Defense Minister and renowned philanthropist, General TY Danjuma (rtd), has tempered expectations surrounding the Kashimbilla Dam, emphasizing that the region should not expect an immediate boost in electricity despite the completion of the project.
Truth Live News gathered that Gen Danjuma, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures from Nigeria’s Middle Belt, issued this cautionary statement during the formal concessioning of the dam to his company on Saturday in Kashimbilla, Takum.
While addressing guests at the event, including the Chief of Takum, His Royal Highness, Barrister Danlami Sonpiya, who expressed optimism about the dam’s potential to deliver stable electricity across the region, Danjuma took a more measured stance. He noted that while the dam holds great promise, the current infrastructure in the region is inadequate to handle the power generated.
“The power produced by the dam is too strong for the weak installations in Takum and surrounding areas,” Danjuma remarked. He explained that the electric cables in most homes have deteriorated over time and are now vulnerable to fire hazards when exposed to the full power output of the dam.
Danjuma further stressed that for the dam’s full potential to be realized, there is a need for a comprehensive overhaul of the region’s power infrastructure. “For electricity to be fully optimized, the entire state needs to be rewired all over,” he said, pointing to the extensive nature of the upgrades required.
However, the retired general expressed optimism about the future, declaring that the “journey has begun” towards electrifying the entire catchment area, even though it may take considerable time to achieve this goal.
The Kashimbilla Dam, a federal government initiative, has now been concessioned to a consortium led by Danjuma, a significant milestone for the region. In addition to power generation, the dam project is set to include other infrastructural developments aimed at transforming the area into a tourism hub. Plans are underway to construct an ultra-modern airport nearby, along with the completion of a five-star hotel to cater to tourists and investors alike.
This move by Danjuma, known for his vast wealth and influence, is expected to spur further economic development in the Middle Belt region. As one of Nigeria’s leading industrialists, his involvement in the project signals a new chapter for the region’s infrastructure development.
While the completion of the Kashimbilla Dam is a step forward for the region, the immediate impact on electricity supply may be limited, as pointed out by Gen Danjuma. His candid remarks serve as a reminder that large-scale infrastructure projects often require long-term planning and support to realize their full benefits. However, with the involvement of a major figure like Danjuma, many are hopeful that the necessary investments in the region’s power infrastructure will follow. Public sentiment is likely to view this development with cautious optimism, appreciating the long-term vision while remaining aware of the immediate challenges ahead.