FG Secures $500m Deal For Irrigation, Hydropower In 25 States

The Federal Government of Nigeria has signed a $500 million Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the World Bank for the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project. This initiative, coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in partnership with the Ministry of Power, aims to enhance dam safety, improve water resource management, and boost hydropower and irrigation systems across 25 states.
The signing ceremony, held in Abuja, was attended by the minister of water resources and sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, and the minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu.
Speaking on the project, Prof. Utsev, described SPIN as a transformative initiative that would drive food production, create jobs, and bolster Nigeria’s economy.
He praised the World Bank for its continued support, referencing the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project, which is set to conclude in January 2025. Utsev expressed confidence that SPIN would build on this foundation to meet the country’s growing irrigation demands and deliver tangible benefits to its citizens. “Our collective efforts have brought us to this significant moment, and I am confident that SPIN will deliver the tangible benefits Nigerians are eagerly anticipating,” he stated.
The project will benefit 25 states, including Benue, Katsina, Akwa Ibom, Niger, Gombe, Sokoto, Enugu, Bauchi, Cross River, Nasarawa, Ekiti, Kebbi, Plateau, Ebonyi, Zamfara, Abia, Kwara, Imo, Taraba, Kano, Delta, Osun, Jigawa, Edo, and Kogi.
Minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu, highlighted the critical role of the partnership in advancing sustainable hydropower development and enhancing Nigeria’s energy security. He noted that only 2 per cent of Nigeria’s 14-gigawatt hydropower potential has been utilised, leaving significant untapped opportunities.
Adelabu described the MoU as a crucial step in optimising renewable energy resources and diversifying the nation’s energy mix in line with the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan. He emphasised the importance of decentralised power systems, noting the role of Electricity Act 2023 in enabling subnational governments to participate in the electricity market.
He also pointed out the solar energy potential in northern Nigeria, where sunshine is available for eight to 12 hours daily. Adelabu reiterated the government’s commitment to leveraging hydropower and fostering partnerships to achieve a sustainable energy future.
“This initiative will transform the energy landscape and provide sustainable power for millions, helping Nigeria tap into its vast renewable energy potential,” he said.