By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the World Bank. The partnership aims to improve access to safe water and boost food security across Nigeria.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, made this known while receiving a World Bank delegation in Abuja.
Renewed Hope Agenda Prioritises Water and Food Security
Prof. Utsev said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda places strong emphasis on safe water, irrigated agriculture, and job creation.
According to him, expanding access to clean water remains a national priority. He added that irrigation development will increase food production while creating employment opportunities for Nigerians.
Furthermore, the Minister stressed that stronger cooperation with the World Bank will speed up the implementation of the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) Project. He noted that the Ministry is also executing several other high-impact projects with the Bank’s support.
Nigeria to Showcase Water Sector Reforms in Chad
The Minister also confirmed Nigeria’s participation in the upcoming Africa Water Forum in N’Djamena, Chad.
He explained that the Ministry will present the key reforms introduced under the Renewed Hope Agenda. These reforms focus on expanding access to safe and sustainable water, especially in underserved communities.
In addition, Nigeria will use the forum to highlight investment opportunities in the country’s water sector and attract development partners.
World Bank Confirms Purpose of Abuja Visit
Earlier, the World Bank Task Team Leader for the SPIN Project, Zack Zieglhifer, and Co-Task Team Leader, Engr. Chinedu Umolu, explained the purpose of their visit.
They said they visited the Ministry to confirm Nigeria’s participation in the Africa Water Forum.
According to the officials, West African countries, the World Bank, and other development partners will host the forum this month in N’Djamena.
Africa Water Forum to Focus on Water Security Financing
The World Bank officials disclosed that the forum will feature high-level discussions on Africa’s water challenges.
They added that participants will explore innovative financing options to strengthen water security across the continent. The sessions will also encourage dialogue, support informed decisions, and secure practical commitments from governments and development partners.
