Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has welcomed Nigeria’s victory in the international arbitration over the proposed Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project, describing the development as a significant step towards resolving the long-running dispute surrounding the project.
According to the governor, the outcome of the arbitration has cleared a major legal hurdle and could now facilitate efforts to commence the construction of the Mambilla Hydropower Project.
Kefas stated this in a state-wide broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary, describing the development as beneficial not only to Nigeria but also to Taraba State and the wider North-East region.
“I congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government on Nigeria’s recent victory in the international arbitration concerning the proposed Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project.
“The decision of the International Chamber of Commerce tribunal on 17 September 2026 rejected the claims brought against Nigeria and removed a major legal obstacle that had held back the proposed project.
“I commend Mr President, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Federal Ministry of Justice and Nigeria’s legal team for protecting our national interest,” he said
The governor noted that Taraba and the Mambilla region had for years been associated with significant economic and energy potential, but said the benefits had yet to translate into reliable electricity “to our homes, schools, hospitals, farms and businesses”.
“We welcome the removal of this legal obstacle and stand ready to work with the Federal Government to move the project forward responsibly, with proper protection for host communities and the environment”, Kefas further stated.
Kefas also highlighted Taraba State’s capacity for developing small and medium-scale hydropower projects, solar energy and other sources of electricity generation.
He said the Electricity Act 2023, alongside reforms undertaken by the state in the electricity sector, had created opportunities for the establishment of an effective intrastate electricity market within the existing legal framework.
“I am directing the Taraba State Electricity Commission and other relevant institutions to assess suitable sites, consult host communities and prepare credible investment opportunities through transparent processes,” he said.
