By George George Idowu
The federal government has solicited more support from the World Bank to enable Nigeria to upgrade existing dam infrastructure and construct new ones.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev who disclosed this on Friday during a meeting with delegation from the World Bank led by the Senior Water Resources Management Specialist and Team Leader of the TRIMING and SPIN projects, Engr. Chinedu Umolu, alongside the National Coordinator of SPIN, Engr. Ipinlaye Olaiye said it will help in boosting irrigation farming, achieving food security, and improving hydropower generation.
While acknowledging the World Bank’s critical role in funding projects that have significantly impacted millions of Nigerians, the Minister emphasized that more support was needed especially now that President Tinubu’s administration is prioritizing agricultural expansion and sustainable energy through dam infrastructure.
He said: “With more states indicating interest in participating in the upcoming SPIN project, additional funding will be crucial to enable full participation.
“This will, in turn, boost food production, create jobs for our youth, and contribute to economic growth,” he added.
Prof Utsev assured the World Bank of continuous collaboration and effective implementation of the SPIN project to ensure its success nationwide.
Reacting, Engr. Umolu briefed the minister on the successful implementation and upcoming closure of the TRIMING project next month.
He expressed appreciation for the federal government’s steadfast support, which has contributed to the project’s achievements.
Umolu also commended Prof. Utsev’s proactive leadership in launching the SPIN project, noting the wide interest from states as a testament to the government’s commitment to agricultural and water resource development.
“The World Bank is committed to supporting the SPIN project to ensure it brings lasting benefits to Nigerians,” he affirmed.
The TRIMING (Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria) and SPIN (Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria) projects are key World Bank-assisted initiatives aimed at improving water resource management and food production across the country.