The world's oldest and existing power station ; The world's first hydro generation dam ; The world's largest generating unit today ; The world's largest dam ; The world's longest transmission line ; The world's first hydro generation station ; The world's oldest and existing power station ; Advantages of Alternating Current (AC) over Direct Current (DC) ; The world's largest solar power station ; Michael Faraday's contribution to electricity utilization ; James Watt's contribution to power generation

PART VIII - ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NATIONAL HYDROELECTRIC POWER PRODUCING AREAS DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION


Part VIII of the Electricity Act 2023 comprises sections 82 through 107. As expressed in the sections, N-HYPPADEC is designed to be dedicated to the sustainable development of hydroelectric power-producing areas, addressing both developmental and ecological concerns. This robust framework enables it to efficiently and effectively manage and develop these regions, ensuring long-term benefits for the communities involved. It emphasizes transparency, accountability, and sustainable development.

Highlights of the twenty-six sections are:


Establishment and Legal Framework
  • Legal Entity: N-HYPPADEC is established as a corporate body, which means it has its own legal identity, can own property, enter contracts, and sue or be sued in its corporate name. This gives it a high level of operational autonomy and legal standing.
  • Membership: Any state generating hydroelectric power is part of N-HYPPADEC. This means states producing hydroelectric power have a stake in the commission's activities and decision-making.

Leadership Structure
  • Rotating Chairmanship: The leadership rotates alphabetically among member states. This ensures fair representation and shared leadership responsibilities across all states involved.
  • Headquarters:Located in Minna, Niger State, which may be strategic due to its proximity to major hydroelectric power sources.

Governing Council Composition
The council's diverse composition ensures that various interests and expertise are represented:
  • Part-time Chairman: Appointed on a part-time basis and presides over council meetings.
  • Community Representatives: Representatives from each affected community and from other non-hydroelectric power producing areas.
  • Federal Ministries Representatives: Representatives from the Federal Ministries of Power, Environment, Water Resources, and Finance to provide oversight and integrate federal policies with N-HYPPADEC activities.
  • Managing Director: The executive leader responsible for the daily operations of N-HYPPADEC.

Appointment Process
  • President’s Appointment: The President appoints the Chairman and other council members, subject to Senate confirmation (except certain federal ministry representatives). This ensures political oversight and legitimacy.
  • Term Limits and Renewal: Council members serve four-year terms, renewable for another term. This helps maintain continuity while allowing for fresh perspectives.

Responsibilities and Functions of N-HYPPADEC
  • Policy and Development Guidelines: Formulates policies and guidelines for the development of hydroelectric power-producing areas. This includes
    planning and implementing projects, carrying out surveys, and preparing development schemes.
  • Ecological Management: Addresses ecological issues arising from dam operations, such as floods and environmental hazards.
  • Funding and Projects Assessment: Assesses and ensures proper utilization of funds for projects in hydroelectric power-producing areas. Reports on
    project progress and ensures alignment with developmental goals.
  • Community and Infrastructure Development: Focuses on physical development and infrastructure projects to improve the quality of life in

Directorates within N-HYPPADEC
Each directorate focuses on specific operational aspects:
  • Finance and Administration: Manages finances and administrative tasks.
  • Operations: Oversees day-to-day operational activities.
  • Engineering and Technical Services: Handles technical aspects and engineering projects.
  • Community and Rural Development: Focuses on community engagement and rural development initiatives.
  • Legal Services: Provides legal support and ensures compliance with regulations.
  • Planning, Research, and Statistics: Conducts research, planning, and statistical analysis to inform decision-making.

Additional Provisions
  • Meeting Regulations: N-HYPPADEC will establish its own rules for summoning and conducting meetings.
  • Internal Policy Oversight: The council makes internal policy directions and oversees the overall functioning of N-HYPPADEC, ensuring alignment with its goals and objectives.
  • Contracting and Staffing: Approves contracts and manages staffing, including promotions and disciplinary actions.

Management and Committees
  • Management Committee:
    • Led by the Managing Director, who acts as the chief executive officer.
    • Includes Directors from various Directorates.
    • Manages general operations and administration of N-HYPPADEC.
  • Advisory Committee:
    • Comprised of all Governors from member states and additional representatives.
    • Advises the President annually on the activities and functions of N-HYPPADEC.
    • Regulates its own proceedings.

Leadership and Appointments
  • Managing Director:
    • Appointed by the President, confirmed by the Senate.
    • Must be a competent Nigerian from a member state, rotating among member states alphabetically.
    • Responsible for supervising employees and acting as the chief accounting officer.
    • Serves a four-year term, renewable once.
Legal and Administrative Provisions
  • Permanent Employment: Employees have permanent and pensionable positions as per the Pension Reform Act.
  • Fund Management:
    • Sources include revenue from hydroelectric operations, ecological funds, power-generated revenue, gifts, loans, and federal contributions.
    • Funds cover administrative costs, salaries, contracts, and related activities.

Reporting and Accountability
  • Financial and Activity Reports:
    • Annual expenditure and income estimates to the President.
    • Proper account-keeping and annual audits.
    • Quarterly and annual reports on N-HYPPADEC’s activities to the President.

Additional Powers and Provisions
  • Acceptance of Gifts: N-HYPPADEC can accept gifts under legal conditions.
  • Borrowing Authority: With Presidential consent, it can borrow funds.
  • Office Management: Can purchase, lease, construct, and sell offices as needed.
  • Presidential Directives: Must comply with directives from the President.
  • Legal Protections: Officers and employees have protections under the Public Officers Protection Act.

Monitoring and Compliance
  • Monitoring Committee:
    • Appointed by the President.
    • Monitors Fund management and project implementation.
    • Has access to N-HYPPADEC’s records and submits reports to the President.

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