By Fatima Saka
Abuja — The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the World Bank to accelerate access to safe water and enhance food security across Nigeria.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, made this known on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the World Bank at his office in Abuja.
Utsev stated that the partnership aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which prioritises improved access to potable water, food security through irrigated agriculture, and job creation for Nigeria’s growing population.
He emphasised that deeper collaboration with the World Bank would expedite the implementation of the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) Project, alongside other critical interventions supported by the global financial institution.
According to the Minister, these initiatives are designed to address water scarcity challenges, boost agricultural productivity, and drive economic growth.
Utsev also assured the delegation of the Ministry’s participation in the forthcoming Africa Water Forum scheduled to hold this month in N’Djamena, Chad.
He noted that Nigeria would leverage the platform to showcase ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at expanding access to sustainable water, particularly in underserved communities, while also highlighting investment opportunities in the country’s water sector.
Earlier, the World Bank Task Team Leader for the SPIN Project, Zack Zieglhifer, alongside Co-Task Team Leader, Engr. Chinedu Umolu, said their visit was to confirm Nigeria’s participation in the Africa Water Forum.
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They explained that the forum, organised by West African countries in collaboration with the World Bank and other development partners, would feature high-level engagements focused on driving policy decisions and securing commitments, particularly in innovative financing for water security across Africa.
The renewed partnership is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s efforts in tackling water access challenges and achieving sustainable food production nationwide.
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