The Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, has called on the World Bank to scale up its financial support for Nigeria’s dam infrastructure projects in a bid to enhance irrigation farming, ensure food security, and expand hydropower generation.
Prof. Utsev made the appeal on Thursday during a meeting in Abuja with a World Bank delegation led by Senior Water Resources Management Specialist and Team Leader of the TRIMING and SPIN projects, Engr. Chinedu Umolu, and the National Coordinator of SPIN, Engr. Ipinlaye Olaiye.
While commending the World Bank for its ongoing support—particularly its funding of key water projects that have benefited millions of Nigerians—Prof. Utsev emphasized the need for expanded assistance. He stated that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is prioritizing the rehabilitation and construction of dams across the country as a strategic move to scale up food production and boost clean energy.
“With more states expressing interest in joining the soon-to-be-launched SPIN project, additional funding from the World Bank is essential,” Utsev noted. “This support will allow states to fully participate in the initiative, which promises to drive food production, create jobs for our youth, and strengthen the national economy.”
The Minister assured the visiting team of the Federal Government’s commitment to a seamless and effective implementation of the SPIN project.
Earlier, Engr. Umolu informed the Minister that the World Bank delegation was in his office to provide an update on the successful implementation and imminent conclusion of the TRIMING project next month. He praised the Tinubu administration for its consistent support and highlighted the positive impact of the project on citizens’ livelihoods.
Engr. Umolu also applauded Prof. Utsev’s proactive leadership, which he credited for the smooth rollout of the SPIN project, citing widespread state-level interest as a testament to the project’s promise. He reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in achieving its development goals through these strategic interventions.
