By Gabriel Ameh
The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has described the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) arbitration ruling in favour of Nigeria in the long-running Mambilla Hydropower Project dispute as significant for the country’s finances and power sector.
An ICC tribunal in Paris on September 17, 2026, rejected claims brought by Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited in disputes linked to the Mambilla project.
The related claims had put Nigeria’s potential exposure at more than $3.38 billion, according to reports on the arbitration. The tribunal also ordered Sunrise Power and its promoter, Leno Adesanya, to reimburse Nigeria for 75 per cent of its legal fees and expenses, amounting to about $11.82 million.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ahmad Sajoh, and Secretary, Danjuma Sada, TSF said the ruling could have implications beyond the immediate legal dispute.
The group said the decision could remove a major legal obstacle that has surrounded the long-delayed Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Project in Taraba State.
“The significance of the Mambilla ruling extends far beyond the courtroom,” TSF said, arguing that the outcome could give the Federal Government greater fiscal room while addressing inherited obligations in the power sector.
The forum noted that the Federal Government is implementing a plan to settle ₦3.3 trillion in verified legacy obligations in the electricity sector.
According to TSF, avoiding the potential liability associated with the Mambilla-related claims could help the government focus on existing power-sector obligations and reforms.
The group also highlighted the potential economic implications of the Mambilla project, which has been planned as a major hydroelectric development in Taraba State.
TSF said successful implementation of the project could contribute to electricity generation and support productive sectors including manufacturing, mining, agriculture and technology.
It added that improved electricity supply could create opportunities for businesses, investment and employment across the economy.
The forum further said the arbitration outcome demonstrated the importance of resolving major commercial disputes through established international mechanisms and maintaining strong contractual safeguards.
TSF urged the Federal Government to build on the arbitration outcome by advancing work on the Mambilla project while ensuring transparency, commercial discipline and proper contractual protections.
The Mambilla dispute dates back to a 2003 agreement concerning the proposed development of a large hydroelectric power project in Taraba State. Sunrise commenced ICC arbitration proceedings against Nigeria in 2017 over the dispute.
The latest ICC award rejected Sunrise’s claims and also dismissed its $400 million claim relating to a later settlement arrangement.
Source: Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF); additional facts cross-checked with the State House and published reports on the ICC ruling.
