Katsina Governor Radda meets Oceans Énergie in Paris, secures approval for 1MW Danja ydropower project

The Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has recorded yet another major milestone in advancing Katsina’s clean energy transition following a high-level meeting in Paris with Oceans Énergie, developers of the upcoming 1MW mini-hydroelectric power plant at Danja Dam.

The strategic engagement marks a significant step toward the full execution of the project, which represents one of Katsina State’s flagship renewable energy initiatives targeted at improving rural electrification, agricultural productivity, and local economic development.

In attendance at the meeting were the Special Adviser to the Governor on Power and Energy, Dr. Hafiz Ibrahim Ahmed, and the Technical Assistant on Renewable Energy, Engr. Abdulaziz Kabir Abdullahi.

A major highlight of the meeting was the formal presentation of the French Treasury’s approval for counterpart funding of the Danja hydropower project. The approval document was handed over directly to Governor Radda by Dr. Minkaila Salami, Managing Director/CEO of Oceans Énergie, symbolizing France’s strong commitment to partnering with Katsina State in expanding clean, reliable, and sustainable power solutions.

Governor Radda expressed appreciation to the French Government and Oceans Énergie for their partnership and reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to accelerate the implementation of renewable energy projects that support agriculture, healthcare, community development, and energy security.
During the meeting, both parties agreed on a detailed timeline for the execution of the hydropower project, including engineering, procurement, installation, and commissioning phases. The discussions also emphasized ensuring high-quality standards, community engagement, and technical capacity building for Katsina State indigenes.

As part of the agreed roadmap, the Oceans Énergie technical and engineering team is expected to arrive in Katsina next month for the official groundbreaking ceremony, marking the start of on-site activities at Danja Dam.

Governor Radda noted that the Danja mini-hydro project aligns perfectly with his administration’s broader strategy of expanding renewable energy access across the state through solar, wind, hydro, and clean gas solutions.

This project will provide clean electricity for surrounding communities, support irrigation schemes for farmers, stimulate agro-industrial growth, and strengthen Katsina State’s contribution to Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan and the 2060 Net Zero vision.

Katsina State continues to emerge as a national leader in renewable energy development—driven by strong political will, strategic partnerships, and a clear commitment to sustainable economic transformation.