Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam's (GERD) man-made reservoir should be named “Nigat,” or “Dawn,” while the dam itself retains the name “Hidasse” or “Renaissance.” During his talk with Deacon Daniel Kibret, the Prime Minister also took the opportunity to commend the nation’s defense and security forces, stating they deserve immense credit for their role in ensuring the project’s completion.

According to Abiy, numerous external forces and internal groups, including some trained abroad, actively attempted to sabotage the dam's construction. However, he emphasized that "our strong security apparatus made sacrifices to ensure the project was completed." He also offered gratitude to the patriotic Ethiopians who worked tirelessly for 14 years, the media for their advocacy, and the artists who celebrated the Abay River through their work.

The Prime Minister explained that the names were chosen to reflect the shared struggle and collective triumph of the Ethiopian people. The reservoir, now one of Africa’s largest lakes, was given its name to honor the countless individuals who sacrificed for the project. “Many people gave their lives for the dam, many were wounded, and many contributed what they could. Therefore, we discussed and decided that it needed a collective name,” he stated.

Abiy elaborated on the significance of the name "Nigat," explaining that it symbolizes a national awakening. For centuries, he said, Ethiopians watched as the Abay River carried away their resources. "It took us a long time to understand this. We were in a deep sleep," he said. “We want to name the reservoir ‘Nigat’ because it represents the time we woke up and realized the wealth we have.”

He concluded with a forward-looking message: “Dawn is the first moment to start the day. Ethiopia has seen its dawn in the Renaissance. From this point on, it is awake and ready to create many more ‘renaissances.’”