HJRBD Begins Test Run 8MW Hydropower Turbines at Tiga Dam

The Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority has announced the commencement of a test run of newly installed 8-megawatt hydropower turbines at the Tiga Dam as part of efforts to boost electricity generation in Kano State.

The development, which is being undertaken in collaboration with the Kano State Hydropower and Energy Development Company, will begin on Saturday, March 13, 2026.

The test run is expected to mark a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to harness renewable energy from its water resources.

In a public announcement issued by the Managing Director of the authority, Rabiu Suleiman Bichi, the agency explained that the exercise is aimed at evaluating the operational efficiency of the turbines at the hydroelectric generation facility located at the dam.

According to the statement, the Left Side and River Bed outlets of the dam will be temporarily closed to enable engineers carry out the technical exercise. The authority, however, assured residents and other water users that the temporary closure would not result in water shortages in downstream communities.

“The closure of these outlets will be fully compensated by controlled water discharge through the newly activated 8-megawatt turbines,” the statement said.

The authority also appealed to farmers, fishermen and communities living along the river course to remain vigilant during the testing period and to promptly report any unusual or adverse effects observed during the exercise to the nearest office of the river basin authority.

The Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority reaffirmed its commitment to responsible water resource management and to ensuring that all water users continue to benefit from its operations while the hydropower facility undergoes the testing phase.