Government launches $500 million World Bank-backed initiative to enhance agricultural output and electricity supply

The Federal Government has inaugurated the $500 million World Bank-funded Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Project, aimed at bolstering food production and power generation, with the flag-off ceremony taking place on Tuesday.

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Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Joseph Utsev, who presided over the launch in Abuja, described the project as a targeted initiative to enhance dam safety and water resources management, thereby improving irrigation and hydropower generation.

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According to Utsev, who also chairs the SPIN Project Steering Committee, the initiative will contribute to national food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, supporting the country's overall development.

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The minister noted that the project's launch marks a significant milestone in Nigeria's efforts to modernize irrigation, strengthen water governance, and enhance agricultural productivity, ultimately improving the livelihoods of millions of farmers.

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Utsev emphasized that the project will introduce modern irrigation systems, improve dam management, and strengthen institutions to boost agricultural productivity and enhance resilience to climate challenges.

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The SPIN Project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes food security, economic resilience, and infrastructure development, Utsev explained.

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Utsev highlighted that the President's declaration of a national emergency on food security underscores the need to transform Nigeria's agricultural production system, moving beyond dependence on rain-fed agriculture.

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He stressed that with increasing climate variability, erratic rainfall, and rising food demand driven by population growth, Nigeria must invest in modern and climate-resilient irrigation systems.

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The project comprises four major components: institutional strengthening and capacity building for water resources management, irrigation modernization, improvement in dam operations and safety, and project management to ensure effective coordination and accountability.

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Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mahmuda Mamman, emphasized the need for strong collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate implementation of the project.

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World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, noted that water security, food security, and energy remain critical foundations for sustainable economic growth, and the SPIN project builds on the success of the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria project.

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Verghis explained that the SPIN project will rehabilitate about 14,000 hectares of irrigated land and attract private investment in irrigation development, further supporting the country's agricultural sector.

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World Bank Global Director for Water, Saroj Jha, emphasized the importance of improving water storage, highlighting that Nigeria has over 400 dams, many of which require rehabilitation to enhance their capacity to manage floods and droughts.