Nigeria's Power Mortgage to Niger: Demystifying an Unsung Bilateral Agreement

Introduction

In the complex arena of international relations, bilateral agreements often serve as the bedrock for cooperation and mutual benefit between nations.

 Map showing both countries 

However, when such agreements are not honored, the consequences can reverberate far beyond diplomatic circles. Such is the case with Nigeria's power mortgage to Niger, a little-known but significant pact that has profound implications for both countries' energy landscapes.

The Bilateral Agreement

At the heart of this issue lies a bilateral agreement wherein Nigeria committed to providing a steady power supply to its Nigerien neighbor. This commitment was not merely an act of goodwill; it was a strategic move aimed at dissuading Niger from constructing its own dam, which had the potential to disrupt the water course crucial to the functioning of Nigeria's Kainji dam. This dam, a cornerstone of Nigeria's hydroelectric power generation, relies on a stable flow of water for its operations.

Renegence on the Agreement

However, recent developments suggest that Nigeria has reneged on its promise, failing to uphold its end of the bilateral agreement. The consequences of this breach are manifold. For Niger, the unreliable power supply from Nigeria exacerbates existing demographic challenges, including rapid population growth and increased demand for electricity. Consequently, the Nigerien government has been compelled to reassess its energy strategy, leading to the initiation of the Kandadji dam project.

Implications of the renegence: The Kandadji Dam

The Kandadji dam, once completed, is expected to generate appreciable megawatts of electricity for Nigeriens. However, its construction comes with its own set of implications, particularly for Nigeria's power sector.

Kandadji Dam 

The World Bank, in its environmental and social impact assessment study of the Kandadji Dam Project conducted in 2015, highlighted several potential ramifications. Chief among these is the projected reduction in hydroelectric power generated by Nigeria's Kainji and Jeba dams by 12.8% and 15.7%, respectively.

Threat to Nigeria's Under Performing Power Sector

This development poses a significant threat to sustainable development in Nigeria's power sector. With an already strained energy infrastructure and growing demand for electricity, any decrease in power generation capacity could have far-reaching consequences. Nigeria's attitude towards the bilateral agreement with Niger not only undermines its own hydro power source but also jeopardizes the stability and reliability of its energy supply.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the power mortgage between Nigeria and Niger is a complex and often overlooked aspect of their bilateral relations. Nigeria's failure to uphold its commitment has prompted Niger to pursue alternative energy solutions, with the construction of the Kandadji dam being a prime example. However, the implications of this shift extend beyond the borders of Niger, posing significant challenges to Nigeria's power sector and sustainable development goals.

References:

1. World Bank. (2015). Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Study and Environmental and Social Management Plan of the Kandadji Dam Project.