Niger State Conducts Final Assessment for World Bank–Supported SPIN Irrigation Initiative
Niger State has hosted a high-level technical team from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation to conduct the final assessment of irrigation schemes in preparation for the launch of the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project.
In a statement released by Alhaji Akilu Musa Kuta, the Permanent Secretary of the Niger State Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation Services, the visit marks a significant milestone toward initiating intervention activities aimed at upgrading irrigation infrastructure throughout the state.
Supported by a $500 million funding package from the World Bank, the SPIN project is being executed through the federal ministry, with Niger State designated as one of the ten beneficiary states nationwide.
The project aims to strengthen irrigation systems, promote renewable energy adoption, and increase food production capacity within participating states.
A key objective is the rehabilitation of 40,000 hectares of farmland from 2025 to 2030, utilizing modern irrigation technologies powered by renewable energy.
The initiative also emphasizes sustainable facility management through Water Users Associations to ensure long-term effectiveness and maintenance.
The SPIN team was welcomed at Government House, Minna, by the Niger State Commissioner for Water Resources and Irrigation Services, Farouk Umaru Audi, along with Permanent Secretary Akilu Musa Kuta and other ministry officials, demonstrating the state government’s commitment to the project’s success.
During the visit, Hauwa Mohammed Sadiq, Project Lead for SPIN, highlighted Niger State’s advantageous position due to its expansive arable land and irrigation potential.
She stressed the importance of sustainability, maintenance culture, and farmers’ ownership, noting plans to provide training and establish a dedicated project office in the state.
Representing the state government, Deputy Chief of Staff Sadiq Yusuf expressed gratitude for the support from the SPIN project and reaffirmed the state’s dedication to contributing to successful implementation.
The initiative is anticipated to enhance agricultural productivity, strengthen food security, and improve electricity access through renewable energy integration across Niger State.
