Niger State has taken legal action against the Federal Government at the Supreme Court, demanding to be recognised as a beneficiary of the 13% derivation fund granted to natural resource-producing states.

In the suit, filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Mohammed Ndarani, the state argues that its significant role in power generation through four major hydroelectric dams—Kainji, Jebba, Shiroro, and Zungeru—qualifies it for the fund. These installations, the state says, are crucial to Nigeria’s electricity supply and even provide power to neighbouring West African countries.

Despite this contribution, Niger State claims it has never received derivation payments. It is urging the court to interpret provisions of the 1999 Constitution and the Revenue Allocation Act to support its inclusion.

The state also highlights the environmental and economic impact of hosting the dams—such as loss of arable land, frequent flooding, and community displacement. It blames the federal government for years of neglect and the Attorney-General for failing to ensure fair treatment and advise the President on the matter.

Citing recent electricity generation data and long-term fiscal contributions from the dams, Niger State insists it deserves a share of the derivation fund and wants the Supreme Court to declare it eligible. A hearing date is yet to be scheduled.