Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwa, Managing Director of the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC) is a study in leadership, with a great sense of responsibility and empathy leadership. Commitment, resilience, passion for service delivery and development are what drive him. According to him, leadership is more than just sitting down in office.
“Leadership is about being present with the people,” Sadiq-Yelwa shares, “You cannot solve issues from afar. I make sure to visit communities, meet with local leaders, and understand their needs before implementing any project. This approach has allowed HYPPADEC to address the real challenges people face and not merely the ones we assume.”
As HYPPADEC continues its mission to transform lives in Nigeria’s hydroelectric power-producing regions, the commission’s Managing Director, Alhaji Sadiq-Yelwa, stands out as a visionary leader whose passion, resilience, and deep understanding of rural development have significantly reshaped these often-overlooked communities.
Under Sadiq-Yelwa’s stewardship, HYPPADEC has been undertaking a range of initiatives aimed at addressing the unique challenges facing communities in Nigeria’s power-producing regions. These are marked by groundbreaking achievements that have directly benefited thousands of people, creating sustainable development opportunities in education, healthcare, infrastructure, economic empowerment, and environmental preservation.
Under his watch, HYPPADEC enlisted Kaduna, Nasarawa, Taraba and Gombe states into its membership in 2023. Abubakar- Yelwa made the disclosure during a five-day capacity-building workshop on a social standards short course held in Kaduna State at that time.
The objective of that training workshop included the enhancement of participants’ skills and knowledge of the global best practices for community engagement. The theme was ‘Social Standard Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes Necessary for Effective Community Engagement and Sustainable Rural Development’.
According to the HYPPADEC chief executive officer, the admission of the four states into the membership of the commission followed President Bola Tinubu’s recent assent to the New Electricity Act.
Sadiq-Yelwa said: “The essence of establishing HYPADEC is to bring succour to those people residing around River Niger who are affected by the construction of dams generating electricity to Nigeria.
In an exclusive interview, Sadiq-Yelwa reflects on his journey, achievements, and vision for HYPPADEC. “For me, every day is an opportunity to make a positive impact,” he says. “Our communities are at the heart of Nigeria’s energy production, yet they bear the greatest burden. My mission is to ensure they also enjoy the benefits that come with it.”
“As a commission, we are doing our best but to me the projects we embarked upon is not enough considering the negative effects caused by the dam construction, so, this is just the beginning, and we will continue with it by the grace of Almighty God.
He expressed satisfaction that the president has given us all the necessary backing and encouragement to carry out vital projects that will transform the lives of people living around these areas.”
Yelwa explained that with the addition of four states into HYPPADEC, the number of its members increases to 10, comprised of over 1,800 communities spread across Benue, Plateau Kogi, Kwara, Kebbi and Niger states.
The HYPPADEC boss also announced the management’s decision to create a new Agricultural Division in the Directorate of Community, noting that the development was a significant increase in the scope of work and responsibility for the Directorate which he described as the backbone of the commission. Sadiq-Yelwa listed some of the constraints face by the residents to include scarcity of portable water and incessant floods that usually destroy houses and ravage farmlands; hence the need for drainage construction to mitigate the menace.
The MD assured that the commission would not relent until it achieves the mandate for which it was established.
“We are grateful that both the governor and the benefitting communities are appreciative of what we are doing to bring succour to them, actually this is an encouragement to us. We will continue to discharge our responsibilities until the mandate for which the commission is established is achieved,” he said.
What is the genesis of this visionary leader?
Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwa’s journey with HYPPADEC is one of resilience and passion. Born in Kebbi State, he developed a keen sense of responsibility and empathy for communities in marginalized regions from a young age. With a background in economics and public administration, he amassed over two decades of experience in public service before taking on the role of Managing Director at HYPPADEC. His expertise and knowledge have proven invaluable in tackling the unique issues facing Nigeria’s hydroelectric power-producing areas.
His achievements at HYPPADEC speak to his dedication, compassion, and unyielding commitment to the welfare of Nigeria’s hydroelectric power-producing communities. Through a combination of infrastructure development, economic empowerment, health, education, and environmental conservation initiatives, he has set a new standard for sustainable development in the region.
One of the primary challenges in power-producing areas is the state of infrastructure, where communities often suffer from a lack of basic amenities like accessible roads, clean water, and stable electricity—ironically, given their role in power production. Alhaji Sadiq-Yelwa has championed several infrastructure projects to address these needs.
“Under Alhaji’s leadership, we’ve seen the construction of new roads and the rehabilitation of old ones,” says HYPPADEC Project Coordinator Musa Jibrin. “These roads are vital for connecting communities to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.”
Moreover, Sadiq-Yelwa spearheaded projects to bring clean water to remote communities affected by frequent water-borne illnesses due to river contamination. The commission launched several borehole projects, ensuring that rural communities have access to clean and safe drinking water.
“Our goal is to bridge the gap,” explains Sadiq-Yelwa. “For too long, these communities were left without the very infrastructure that should accompany their contributions to the power grid. We’re here to change that.”
A particularly significant achievement of Sadiq-Yelwa’s tenure is his commitment to economic empowerment. With a focus on youth and women, HYPPADEC has introduced programs designed to develop skills, offer training, and create jobs in power-producing communities.
The “HYPPADEC Youth Empowerment Initiative” is one such program that has received widespread acclaim. Over 5,000 youths have been trained in various vocations, from welding and carpentry to digital skills like coding and graphic design. The commission also provides micro-loans to support small businesses and agribusiness initiatives.
In his interview, Sadiq-Yelwa emphasized the importance of providing young people with opportunities. “Young people are the backbone of these communities. If we want a sustainable future, we must empower them. It’s about giving them the skills and resources they need to support themselves and contribute positively to society.”
Halima Ibrahim, a beneficiary of HYPPADEC’s micro-loan program, shares how her life has changed. “Before, I had little means to support my family. Now, with the loan I received, I have a small poultry business. My children are in school, and I feel hopeful for the future,” she said with a smile.
Health and education are core pillars of HYPPADEC’s mission, and Alhaji Sadiq-Yelwa has made significant strides in these areas. Through HYPPADEC’s Health Outreach Program, the commission has organized free medical camps in several rural communities, providing critical services like vaccinations, maternal health care, and treatment for common diseases.
One of the most notable programmes is the “HYPPADEC Free Medical Mission,” where volunteer medical professionals travel to rural communities to deliver healthcare services. These missions have been a lifeline for areas without functional healthcare facilities, bringing much-needed medical services to thousands.
Dr. Suleiman Usman, a volunteer with the mission, shares, “We’ve treated patients with ailments they’ve had for years because they couldn’t afford treatment or access a hospital. Thanks to Alhaji Sadiq-Yelwa’s commitment, we’re able to make a real difference in people’s lives.”
In education, HYPPADEC has constructed several school buildings, provided scholarships for deserving students, and trained teachers to improve the quality of education in these communities. Sadiq-Yelwa also prioritized initiatives for the rehabilitation of dilapidated classrooms and the provision of learning materials.
One particularly touching story is that of Yusuf Bala, a high school student who received a scholarship from HYPPADEC. “With this scholarship, I don’t have to worry about my school fees, and I can focus on my studies. I want to become an engineer so that I can give back to my community,” Yusuf says, his eyes shining with determination.
Environmental conservation and community resilience are of serious importance to him. Alhaji Sadiq-Yelwa is worried that environmental degradation is a recurring issue in power-producing areas, where communities experience frequent flooding, soil erosion, and other ecological problems due to dam operations. And he has led HYPPADEC’s efforts to address these issues, launching programs to build community resilience against environmental hazards.
Through HYPPADEC’s “Environmental Management and Flood Mitigation” project, the commission has conducted flood prevention studies, built embankments, and engaged local communities in conservation activities. This program aims to minimize the adverse impact of hydroelectric power production on the surrounding environment and communities.
“We cannot afford to ignore the environmental impact of our operations,” says Sadiq-Yelwa. “It is our responsibility to help these communities build resilience and adapt to environmental changes.”
The commission also runs an “Environmental Awareness Campaign” that educates community members on sustainable practices like tree planting, waste management, and protecting local biodiversity.
Building partnerships to roll future plans is part of Alhaji Sadiq-Yelwa strategy. He believes that collaboration is essential for the success of HYPPADEC’s mission. To this end, he has forged partnerships with local governments, international development organizations, and private sector stakeholders to fund and implement programs.
“Our resources are finite, but by working with partners, we can expand our reach and impact,” Sadiq-Yelwa explains. Recently, HYPPADEC collaborated with the World Bank and the Nigerian government to roll out a rural electrification project, providing solar-powered systems to rural communities not yet connected to the national grid. This initiative has brought electricity to thousands of homes, schools, and health facilities.
Looking to the future, Sadiq-Yelwa has ambitious plans for HYPPADEC. His vision includes scaling up infrastructure projects, expanding healthcare and education programs, and deepening the commission’s focus on environmental sustainability.
“In the next five years, I want HYPPADEC to be recognized as a model for sustainable rural development,” he states passionately. “We have a long road ahead, but I’m confident that with the right commitment, we can change the lives of millions.”
The impact of Sadiq-Yelwa’s work is not only reflected in the commission’s achievements but also in the stories of the people whose lives have changed. In his words, the joy and gratitude expressed by the beneficiaries motivate him to push harder.
A village leader from Kainji, one of the primary beneficiaries of HYPPADEC’s flood prevention efforts, says, “For years, we have lived in fear of the rains. Alhaji Sadiq-Yelwa and HYPPADEC have given us hope. Our farms and homes are safer, and our children no longer have to abandon school because of flood disruptions.”
Similarly, Maryam Sani, a young woman trained under HYPPADEC’s youth empowerment program, describes how the skills she gained have allowed her to become financially independent. “For the first time, I can contribute to my family’s income. Alhaji Sadiq-Yelwa is a blessing to our community,” she says.
The support from community members, local leaders, and public figures highlights Sadiq-Yelwa’s exceptional leadership qualities. Community leaders appreciate the consultative approach he has taken and have continuously praised his commitment to transparent and inclusive governance.
In his own words, Sadiq-Yelwa reflects, “It’s not just about providing resources; it’s about instilling a sense of pride and hope in people’s hearts. The work we do at HYPPADEC is about creating a future where these communities feel respected and valued for their contribution to the nation.”
As he continues to lead HYPPADEC into a new era of progress and opportunity, there is no doubt that Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwa’s legacy will be remembered as one that transformed lives, empowered communities, and bridged the gap between marginalized regions and the rest of Nigeria.
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