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

Adelabu also revealed that approximately N2.2 billion remains for compensation to communities yet to receive their due payments. He further clarified that when the Zungeru power project began, 133 communities were identified for compensation or resettlement, but that number has now ballooned to over 300.

“I’m happy that we have been able to pay N22 billion out of the compensation, and from our records, we have N2.2 billion remaining for payment,” Adelabu said. “Some new figures have been presented here today, but we will have to go back as a ministry to verify these claims.”

The Minister acknowledged that the Federal Government is facing a shortage of funds, with many pressing issues competing for attention. He called for patience and understanding from the affected communities, urging them to bear in mind the government’s financial limitations.

Adelabu also expressed surprise at the increasing number of communities added to the list of those requiring compensation. He noted that these new figures must be verified before any additional compensation is disbursed.

The Zungeru power project has been a subject of legal contention. Last year, a court in Minna, Niger State, ordered the Federal Government to pay a staggering N1.1 trillion as compensation to displaced communities, a sum that remains under dispute.

Despite the financial challenges, Adelabu reassured the public that the Ministry of Power is committed to ensuring that all affected communities are compensated fairly and promptly.