A GEOSPATIAL ANALYSIS OF MAJOR DAM INFRASTRUCTURES AND MANAGEMENT MODELS IN NORTH-CENTRAL NIGERIA

Abstract

This study presents a geospatial assessment of major dam infrastructure projects in North-Central Nigeria, focusing on both government and private sector involvement. Findings indicate that government-constructed dams, including Itobe Dam (Kogi), Shiroro Dam (Niger), Makurdi Dam (Benue), Oyun Dam (Kwara), Usuma Dam (FCT Abuja), and Doma Dam (Nasarawa), dominate the region. These dams serve multiple purposes, such as irrigation, water supply, power generation, and flood control, reflecting the government’s strategic use of water resources for economic and environmental benefits. Private-sector participation, though limited, significantly contributes through operation and maintenance under concession models. Notable examples include Kainji and Jebba dams, managed by Mainstream Energy Solutions Ltd., and the under-construction Zungeru Dam. This shift towards public-private partnerships enhances operational efficiency, technological adoption, and accountability in dam management. The study provides a comprehensive mapping of dam infrastructure, offering critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders in water resource management, energy production, and regional development, highlighting the need for integrated approaches to maximize socio-economichis study presents a geospatial assessment of major dam infrastructure projects in North-Central Nigeria, focusing on both government and private sector involvement. Findings indicate that government-constructed dams, including Itobe Dam (Kogi), Shiroro Dam (Niger), Makurdi Dam (Benue), Oyun Dam (Kwara), Usuma Dam (FCT Abuja), and Doma Dam (Nasarawa), dominate the region. These dams serve multiple purposes, such as irrigation, water supply, power generation, and flood control, reflecting the government’s strategic use of water resources for economic and environmental benefits. Private-sector participation, though limited, significantly contributes through operation and maintenance under concession models. Notable examples include Kainji and Jebba dams, managed by Mainstream Energy Solutions Ltd., and the under-construction Zungeru Dam. This shift towards public-private partnerships enhances operational efficiency, technological adoption, and accountability in dam management. The study provides a comprehensive mapping of dam infrastructure, offering critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders in water resource management, energy production, and regional development, highlighting the need for integrated approaches to maximize socio-economicand environmental benefits in North-Central Nigeria.