The Federal Government on Tuesday introduced the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Project, known as SPIN, as part of efforts to deliver sustainable power for irrigation and hydropower, aimed at boosting national food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
Backed by the World Bank with a $500m financing package, the project also seeks to improve Nigeria’s resilience against floods, droughts, and climate variability.
Speaking during the launch in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, emphasized that the initiative focuses on food security, economic resilience, and sustainable infrastructure development.
“The Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Project represents a major strategic intervention by the Federal Government with the objective of strengthening dam safety and the management of water resources for improved irrigation and hydropower to contribute more effectively to national food security, economic growth and environmental sustainability,” he said.
Utsev noted that the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritizes food security, economic resilience, and infrastructure development.
“As you will recall, Mr President has declared a national emergency on food security, underscoring the urgent need to transform Nigeria’s agricultural production systems and ensure reliable access to food for all Nigerians,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Power, Mamman Mahmoud, representing the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, urged the project steering committee to remain dedicated to the initiative’s successful implementation.
The $500m World Bank-supported SPIN project aims to improve food security, boost energy generation, and strengthen Nigeria’s climate resilience. It targets the development of 500,000 hectares of irrigated farmland and is projected to generate up to 30 gigawatts of sustainable energy while enhancing the nation’s capacity to withstand climate-related risks.
By modernizing irrigation systems and enhancing dam safety, the project is expected to increase food production, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth, particularly in rural communities.
