NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
AI in Journalism: Stakeholders harp on balancing risks, rewards
General News

AI in Journalism: Stakeholders harp on balancing risks, rewards

181 total views today

By Oluwatope Lawanson

Media stakeholders have said that Artificial Intelligence (AI) in journalism presents both opportunities and challenges due to its growing integration within the media industry.

This observation was made during a media stakeholders’ roundtable on AI, titled: ‘The Media & Press Freedom: Issues & Perspectives’.

The event was held at the International Press Centre (IPC), Ogba, Lagos, to commemorate World Press Freedom Day.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was organised by IPC in collaboration with ACSPN, and supported by IFEX.

IFEX is a global network of over 100 organisations across 70 countries working to advance freedom of expression.

The event also explored links between AI, press freedom, disinformation, and censorship in modern journalism.

Mr Gbenga Ogunleye, a media Law expert described AI as a “necessary evil”, significantly disrupting journalism, much like the earlier influence of new media technologies.

The ex-Provost of the Nigeria Institute of Journalism, noted that AI is widely used across professions, including journalism, bringing both benefits and drawbacks to the practice.

On press freedom, Ogunleye stressed the importance of strong and independent journalism in society.

He said such journalism is crucial for reporting from conflict zones and exposing corruption, crime, and abuse of power.

Ogunleye quoted Scott Griffen of the International Press Institute, saying press freedom is under global strain.

He echoed the need for robust, independent journalism has become more urgent than ever.

Prof. Rotimi Olatunji, Association of Communication Scholars & Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN) President, said AI presents future opportunities and threats for journalism.

Represented by Dr Solomon Oyeleye, he urged scholars and professionals to understand AI’s impact on society.

He said scholars must consider how to train future journalists using AI responsibly and ethically.

Oyeleye added that the current generation must also ensure their use of AI benefits society.

“It’s a double-edged sword, and globally, everyone is still learning to manage it,” he stated.

Oyeleye, a media lawyer and ex-Provost of NIJ, reaffirmed ACSPN’s commitment to communication education and research excellence.

He called for stronger collaboration between media scholars and professionals to shape the future of journalism.

As Professor of Public Relations and Advertising at LASU, he encouraged journalists to join ACSPN.

“I urge you to take up training and engagement opportunities to stay relevant in the AI-driven media landscape,” he said.

The event emphasised the need for journalists to understand AI’s media implications and manage its risks while leveraging its advantages.

Mr Monday Ashibogwu, Publisher of Quick News, said balancing AI’s benefits and threats requires a measured approach.

He called for transparency, ethical standards, and regulatory safeguards to protect press freedom and media integrity.

Ashibogwu advised media houses to use AI for operational efficiency, personalisation, and data-driven journalism.

He urged them to adapt quickly to stay competitive in today’s fast-changing media environment. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

Preserve pride, dignity of Nigeria in Saudi Arabia – Shettima tells Pilgrims
Religious

Preserve pride, dignity of Nigeria in Saudi Arabia – Shettima tells Pilgrims

214 total views today
By Salisu Sani-Idris
Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Friday admonished Nigerian pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj to preserve the pride and dignity of the country during their stay in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Shettima gave the admonition at the inauguration of the first batch of pilgrims at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo.
“Our dear intending pilgrims, know that you are more than spiritual travellers. You are ambassadors of Nigeria.
“You carry with you, not only your faith, but also the pride and dignity of this nation.
“Your conduct, your devotion, and your unity must reflect the values we hold dear.
This responsibility is not light. It is noble,” he said.
Shettima assured the pilgrims that President Bola Tinubu had made available all the necessary resources to ensure the success of the 2025 Hajj.
He said that the President’s commitment reflects his administration’s covenant with the people to protect, support, and to elevate every Nigerian, in every sphere of life.
He, therefore, urged the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and all stakeholders in hajj operation to work together to deliver the burden of expectations upon the government.
“The success of this Hajj operation rests on all our shoulders.
“If any of us falters, whether a logistical officer who overlooks a detail or a pilgrim who forgets the dignity of the flag he carries, the consequences could turn what should be a joyful experience into yet another avoidable catastrophe.
“We must not let that happen,” he said.
Shettima commended Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo, for fostering the atmosphere of religious tolerance, mutual respect, and inclusion.
According to him, Uzodinma’s support is both heartening and symbolic of a nation coming into harmony with itself.
Earlier, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), also commended Uzodinma for promoting religious tolerance and peaceful co-existence in the state.
“This event is a big statement that in this blessed country called Nigeria we still have people like the Governor of Imo State who stood up so tall to ensure that this programme holds in Imo.
“It is a testament to anybody who really wants to see what Nigeria is all about.
“At this place there are Christians and even non believers who don’t even believe in Allah all seated to be part of this national programme.
“It is not just a programme for the Muslims. I believe this is an important message to all and sundry that if we really want our country to move forward we have to respect one another,” he said.
The Sultan reiterated the importance of religious tolerance and harmony in moving the nation forward. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi
NIHSA unveils hydro club to promote water sustainability
Water Resources

NIHSA unveils hydro club to promote water sustainability

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By Akpan Glory

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has unveiled the NIHSA Hydro Club to engage young people in water resource management, environmental conservation, and climate resilience.

The initiative was unveiled on Friday at Government Secondary School (GSS), Kubwa, Abuja.

Speaking on behalf of the Director-General of NIHSA, Umar Mohammed, Technical Adviser Jabo Maigima noted the growing environmental challenges facing Nigeria, including climate change, water scarcity, and ecological degradation.

He emphasised the role of young people in promoting sustainability, noting that the club would equip students not only with scientific knowledge but also with a sense of responsibility.

“Through the NIHSA Hydro Club, you are not just learning about the science of water resources, you are becoming advocates for conservation, for wise usage, and for the protection of our ecosystems,” Maigima said.

He outlined several benefits of the club, including skills development, civic responsibility, exposure to new opportunities, teamwork, and confidence building.

Also speaking at the event, Deputy Director Abdulkadir Mohammad, from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, stated that the Hydro Club would serve as a hub for research, innovation, and capacity building.

He noted that the club would nurture future professionals who would contribute not only to water security but also to national development.

“To manage water efficiently, we must invest in technologies that enhance our capacity to predict, plan, and protect.

“Real-time data, smart hydrological networks, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence must form an integral part of our national water strategy”.

Mohammad warned that water scarcity is already a reality in homes, on farms, and in industries across the country.

He cited rising population growth, urban expansion, and the intensifying effects of climate change as key drivers of increasing demand amid limited supply.

He also spoke on the challenges of flooding, noting that it is no longer a seasonal occurrence but has become erratic and destructive, leading to the displacement of families, damaged infrastructure, disrupted livelihoods, and setbacks in development.

“To effectively address flooding, we must prioritise Integrated Flood Management, combining infrastructure such as dams and drainage systems, with nature-based solutions, including wetland restoration, watershed protection, and afforestation,” he said.

Mohammad called for greater community participation, particularly among young people, encouraging Hydro Club members to lead flood awareness campaigns, conduct local surveys, and advocate for change.

“Water is not only a social good; it is an economic driver, efficient water management supports agriculture, generates hydroelectric power, strengthens manufacturing, and sustains public health and sanitation. It underpins every aspect of our economy”.

In his remarks, the Principal of GSS Kubwa, Mr Anderson Oseh, thanked NIHSA for selecting the school as the launch site for the Hydro Club. He pledged to ensure the sustainability of the club’s activities.

“We will ensure that every student participates in the club’s activities, not only to educate our pupils but also to spread the message to other schools,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Substandard products injurious to lives, economy—SON boss
General News

Substandard products injurious to lives, economy—SON boss

174 total views today

By Mercy Neme

The Director-General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, says sub-standard products pose great danger to lives and economic development of the country.

Okeke said this at a stakeholders’ sensitisation forum the agency organised on Friday in Asaba.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the sensitisation programme was tagged, “Promoting Quality Standards through Self-Regulation and Observation of Ethics”.

Represented by the Director, Corporate Affairs, SON, Mrs Ethan Talatu, Okeke said standard and quality products were beneficial for safety, the environment, increased exports and foreign exchange earnings.

He added that standard and quality products were key to economic growth and global competitiveness and acceptability of locally made products.

“The sensitisation was apt, germane and in tune with the President Bola Tinubu’s administration agenda to turn around the nation’s economy,’’ he said.

The D-G, however, said the agency had recorded some results in the series of ongoing sensitisation programmes, especially in the area of collaboration with stakeholders.

“Let us be all involved and engaged to ensure that only certified quality products are in circulation for sale and consumption across the country.

“We have been deploying massive measures towards delivering our mandate to sensitise Nigerians on the need to embrace quality, particularly markets products,” he said.

He called on stakeholders and operators to support the organisation’s activities across the various sectors.

“We encourage the setting up and growth of market associations, membership building to enhance self-regulation and proper observation of ethics.

“By doing so, we will be promoting the growth of our businesses as well as the nation’s economy,” he said.

Okeke assured Nigerians that the organisation would support the nation’s drive towards global competitiveness, trade facilitation and industrial growth.

He added that SON was focusing on promoting standards through self-regulation and observation of ethics thorough quality assurance, requiring public and private sector participation.

The D-G also said that the nationwide sensitisation workshops were to strengthen stakeholders’ collaboration. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abdul Hassan/Buhari Bolaji

Edo govt partners BOI, LAPO to boost local businesses access to credit facilities
Metro

Edo govt partners BOI, LAPO to boost local businesses access to credit facilities

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By Usman Aliyu

In a bid to further boost small businesses, the Edo Government has partnered with the Bank of Industry (BOI) and LAPO Microfinance Bank to expand access to credit facilities for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Mr Amen Odigie, Managing Director, Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), disclosed this on Friday at a crucial information session in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government of the state.

He said the partnership aligned with Gov. Monday Okpebholo’s vision on renewed support for grassroots economic development.

According to him, the initiative is meant to unlock growth for local entrepreneurs across the state.

He also shared other loan opportunities, including the new N75 billion Federal Government MSME intervention fund.

“We are not just waiting for interventions to come to us. We’re actively going out to seek them.

“His Excellency has mandated us to find more financing channels for businesses, and this collaboration with BOI and LAPO is one way we’re delivering on that,” Odigie said.

Mr Joseph Edom, state Manager of BOI, took the participants through the N75bn loan programme, highlighting loan ranges of N1–N5 million with friendly interest rates.

“This fund is here to support business growth. All we ask is that applicants come prepared, with their documents and business properly registered,” Edom said.

Similarly, Ms Sofia Oke, LAPO Microfinance Bank’s Mega Branch Manager, explained the bank’s MSME-tailored products, stressing support for small traders often excluded from conventional banking services.

“We are here for the market women, the artisans, and the micro businesses.

“With the right records and discipline, anyone can grow their business with our support,” she said.

The session also addressed common credit access barriers such as lack of collateral, poor documentation, and business informality.

Participants were urged to register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and maintain good credit history to improve their chances of accessing loans.

In a goodwill message, Secretary to the Esan Central Local Government, Pastor Eromosele Davies Oigbochie, who represented the council chairman, reaffirmed the local government’s support for MSME-focused initiatives.

“This is how we build a resilient local economy by empowering our small businesses,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Editted by Abdulfatai Beki/Joe Idika

FAAN unveils new domestic cargo terminal
Aviation

FAAN unveils new domestic cargo terminal

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By Itohan Abara-Laserian

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Friday inaugurated its Domestic Cargo Terminal at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos.

FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, in her opening remarks, described cargo as a trade enabler that drives both domestic and international commerce.

Kuku was represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Mrs Adebola Agunbiade, at the event.

She stated that cargo movement is the lifeblood of commerce, supporting industries, powering businesses, and creating economic opportunities across the nation.

“As e-commerce expands and agricultural exports rise, reliable and secure logistics are more vital than ever,” Kuku noted.

She added that the facility was designed to fast-track trade, boost efficiency, and prepare Nigeria for future growth.

“This domestic cargo terminal symbolises speed, efficiency, scalability, and improved logistics within the country,” she said.

Kuku added that the impact would be seen in higher aviation revenue and stronger business supply chains nationwide.

She said the terminal would also help increase Nigeria’s international cargo volumes over time.

“As Nigeria’s economic hub, Lagos needs a reliable cargo centre to attract more national freight operators,” she explained.

She revealed FAAN’s plans to replicate similar terminals in Abuja, Kano, Jos, and Niger, where space is less constrained.

Kuku said FAAN is exploring partnerships with states and private stakeholders to expand cargo logistics across Nigeria.

She praised the vision of Aviation Minister Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, for creating the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services.

Kuku commended the directorate for completing and equipping the domestic cargo facility.

FAAN’s Director of Cargo Development and Services, Mr Lekan Thomas, said the directorate supports President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Thomas added the commissioning reflects real progress and new economic prospects, not just aspirations.

“Nigeria handled around 174,000 metric tonnes of air freight in 2023, making it one of Africa’s top cargo markets,” he said.

He noted that 65 per cent of the volume was imports, including pharmaceuticals, machinery, and perishables.

Nigeria’s exports, he said, continue to grow, driven by demand for produce, minerals, and textiles.

Thomas said IATA projects Nigeria’s air cargo market to grow 5 per cent annually over the next five years.

He added that Lagos, as the commercial heart of Nigeria, is key to national logistics development.

Thomas praised the aviation minister and FAAN leadership for their commitment and vision in realising the terminal. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abdulfatai Beki/Kamal Tayo Oropo

FG to repatriate 15,000 Nigerians stranded abroad
Metro

FG to repatriate 15,000 Nigerians stranded abroad

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By Jacinta Nwachukwu

The Federal Government says discussions are ongoing on how 15,000 Nigerians stranded in Cameroon, Niger, Chad and other parts of the world will be returned to Nigeria in safety and dignity.

Alhaji Tijani Ahmed, Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), disclosed this at a media briefing on Friday in Abuja.

Ahmed revealed that no fewer than six million people are displaced in Nigeria while thousands of refugees are living elsewhere across the world.

“We have 15,000 Nigerians that want to return to the country voluntarily and we also have not less than 100,000 foreigners living in this country as refugees.

“All these are the responsibilities of the commission, to give them support,” he said.

While reiterating government’s tireless efforts to ensure safe return of the displaced persons, Ahmed thanked President Bola Tinubu for the support given to the commission and the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry.

The  NCFRMI boss also disclosed that Nigeria would be hosting the first thematic meeting under its chairmanship of the Rabat Process with more than 100 delegates from the 57 partner countries in attendance.

It would be recalled that Nigeria assumed chairmanship of the Rabat Process – a Euro-African dialogue on migration and development – in January, 2025.

Ahmed said that the meeting, scheduled for May 13 and May 14, themed, “Youth, Innovation and Education: Driving the Future of Migration”, would pave the way for bilateral discussions between Nigeria and other countries, leading to better migration governance

“Membership in these platforms provides opportunities for knowledge transfer and better migration management.

“Nigeria’s leadership in the Rabat Process is seen as an advantage, despite its being a one-year term,” he added.

The federal commissioner also outlined the challenges in managing migration, including the need for adequate advocacy to inform younger generations about legal migration pathways.

“There is a need to educate migrants about the consequences of irregular migration, including negative outcomes.

“The focus should be on advocating for legal migration pathways to reduce the number of irregular migrants.

“Regular migration involves moving through legal channels, while irregular migration often involves dangerous and illegal methods.

“Irregular migration can lead to hardship and danger, with many migrants unable to return to their home country,” he said

Ahmed, therefore, called for better coordination and support from various stakeholders, including the media to enhance migration governance. (NAN)

Edited by Bukola Adeoye/ Rotimi Ijikanmi

CEFSAR cautions Nigerians against consuming GMO food
Science & Tech

CEFSAR cautions Nigerians against consuming GMO food

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By Ikenna Osuoha

Prof. Qrisstuberg Amua, the Executive Director, Centre for Food Safety and Agricultural Research (CEFSAR), says that Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) induced foods or grains are harmful to health.

Amua said this during a news conference in Abuja on Friday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that GMOs are plants, animals, or microbes that have had their DNA changed using genetic engineering techniques to achieve desired outcomes.

Such outcomes could be improved shelf life, increased yield or pest resistance.

Amua alleged that GMOs had the potential of causing colon cancers.

“Many of the GMO-induced foods don’t digest and as such can cause colon cancer,” he said.

The don, who called for outright rejection of GMOs, said it could alter human’s natural features.

“It can cause impotency, it can cause infertility for both men and women,’’ he said.

He advocated strong political will to resist the proliferation of GMOs in the country even as he commended some African countries for rejecting it.

Amua dismissed insinuations that GMOs could guarantee food security, saying that it was disastrous and genocidal.

Also Speaking, the Deputy Director, CEFSAR, Dr Segun Adebayo, urged the media to rise to the occasion in the fight against GMOs.

Adebayo said it was time to interrogate claims about GMOs which were presented as facts.

According to him, it is time for us to begin to do our own research and say no to some of the imported ideas that tend to enable our self-destruction.

He explained that GMOs were not regenerative and therefore antithetical to the natural law of regeneration.

Adebayo warned against the complicity of some government officials who promote GMOs for whatever reason. (NAN)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Naval chief provides potable water for Niger community
Defence/Security

Naval chief provides potable water for Niger community

244 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla has inaugurated an integrated solar-powered motorised industrial borehole at Bayan Waya Community in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger.

Speaking at the event on Thursday, Ogalla said the water project was one of his Special Intervention Quick Impact Projects (SIQIP) being executed in communities across the country.

He said the borehole was constructed with 60,000 litres capacity overhead water tank, provision of water points, perimeter fencing as well as provision of solar lighting units around the perimeter of the site.

He was represented at the event by the Chief of Naval Transformation, Rear Adm. Monday Unurhiere.

According to him, the SIQIP is to facilitate the attainment of the re-invigorated Nigerian Navy’s Civil Military Cooperation’s mandate and to contribute to ongoing Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The CNS stated that the projects were avenues for the Nigerian Navy to honor its accomplished senior officers and demonstrate that beyond physically securing lives and properties, it was committed to serving the interests of Nigerians through other ways.

“Today’s commissioning of the Chief of the Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Project undertaken by an illustrious son of Kontagora, Rear Adm. Abdulmajid Ibrahim is yet another watershed in the Nigerian Navy civil-military cooperation annals.

“Not only do these projects resonate with the vision of President Bola Tinubu, the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, it aptly captures the essence for the quick impact projects as conceived by the CNS.

“Indeed, Rear Adm. Ibrahim’s choice to put smiles on the faces of the community typifies Maya Angelou’s avowal that kindness takes courage.

“We therefore salute the senior officer’s mettle and urge him on to more humanitarian endeavors with the novelist Robin Sharma’s words that ‘Each person who delivers kindness stays with us forever’.

“These projects will enhance the quality of lives in this community, I believe that the senior officer and indeed the Nigerian Navy will certainly not be hurriedly forgotten,” he said.

The CNS urged the beneficiaries to use the facilities responsibly so it will endure.

He also appealed to the community and Niger State at large to continue to, in keeping with the tenets of civil-military cooperation, collaborate with the Navy, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies to eliminate threats to their collective well-being.

In his remarks, Gov. Umaru Bago, represented by the Commissioner for Home Land Security, Retired Brig.-Gen. Bello Mohammed, appreciated the navy for the project.

Bago described the project as a significant and impactful initiative of the navy that reflected a strong and commendable sense of national service and commitment to community development.

He said the water project was not just a structure, but a lifeline, adding that it was a testimony to what is possible when security agencies go beyond their traditional mandates to invest in human capital and community welfare.

“Water is essential to life. It is the bedrock of food security, public health, sanitation, and dignity.

“This borehole will undoubtedly alleviate the suffering of the people of Bayan Waya and transform daily life, particularly for women, children, and farmers.

“As we celebrate this achievement, I want to emphasise the importance of community ownership and maintenance.

“This project, which is now a part of your community, should be guarded jealously, maintained regularly, and used responsibly,” he said.

The project facilitator, who is the Chief of Naval Safety and Standard, Rear Adm. Abdulmajid Ibrahim, said the Nigerian Navy has contributed in solving some of the welfare needs of communities across the country.

Ibrahim said the project in Kontagora Emirate marked another significant milestone in the navy’s Civil-Military Relations commitment to communities in Nigeria.

“It is worthy to note that this is one of several projects executed as part of the Chief of the Naval Staff Special Intervention Quick Impact Project across the country.

“Bayan Waya community is now a proud beneficiary of the CNS Special Intervention Quick Impact Project with the commissioning of this Integrated Motorised Solar Powered Industrial Borehole with 60,000 litres capacity overhead Tank,” he said.

The project Inauguration event was graced by His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammed Barau Mu’azu II, Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora- Represented by Magayaki of Kontagora, Alhaji Adamu Mohammed.

Also at the ceremony is the Member Representing Kotongora 1 Constituency in the Niger State House of Assembly, Umar Sani. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

FG, World Bank launch 0m irrigation, power project
Agriculture

FG, World Bank launch $500m irrigation, power project

361 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Government has inaugurated the Steering Committee for the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project aimed to enhance national food security, water management, and climate resilience.

The project, valued at $500 million and supported by the World Bank, aims to deliver large-scale multi-purpose infrastructure for irrigation and hydropower generation.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting in Abuja on Friday, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, who chairs the Steering Committee said the initiative aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

According to the minister, the SPIN project builds on the success of the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project, which helped rehabilitate about 32,000 hectares of irrigation schemes and empowered Water Users Associations (WUAs) across the country.

“Nigeria is committed to improving its food, water, and energy security.

“Through this project, we are targeting 500,000 hectares of irrigated agriculture, 30 Gigawatts of sustainable energy, and strengthened resilience to floods, droughts, and climate change.

“The project consists of four key components: Institutional Strengthening, Irrigation Modernisation, Dam Safety and Operational Improvements, and Effective Project Management.

“It will be implemented under two models; Model 1, which focuses on federal government-managed schemes in collaboration with interested states, and Model 2, which supports state-owned irrigation schemes”.

According to him, out of the 34 states that expressed interest in participating in the project, 27 pledged to meet the readiness criteria, and 17 states have been confirmed as qualified.

He said these states satisfied three key requirements: enacting a WUA law at the state level, allocating budgetary provisions for WUA operations and maintenance, and establishing counterpart funding.

The minister commended the SPIN Interim Team for field assessments and preparing key documents, including the Project Appraisal, Implementation Manual, and 18-month work plan.

He noted that the steering committee, composed of Ministers from relevant sectors and Commissioners from participating states, would serve as the apex policy and decision-making body for the project.

Earlier, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, described the SPIN project as timely, noting that it would build on the achievements of the TRIMING initiative to further transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Kyari commended the World Bank for its continued support towards sustainable development across various sectors, but emphasised the need to place greater focus on measuring concrete outcomes.

“In every programme we implement, whether within our ministries or in partnership with international stakeholders, we must ask a fundamental question: What specific results will this project deliver?

“In the case of agricultural production, what measurable outcomes are we targeting? Clarity on such goals ensures that our efforts are meaningful and result-driven.

“While our rapidly growing population is often viewed as a burden, I see it as a powerful opportunity.

“With strategic planning and the right investments, this population can become a major force for innovation and economic growth. Let us not forget that Nigeria remains one of the fastest-growing economies in the world”.

The Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, who is the co-chairman reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable energy through hydropower, outlining it as key to achieving energy and food security.

Adelabu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Mahmadu Mamman, said the initiative was a major step towards optimising the country’s water resources for long-term development.

He noted that the ministry of power, as a key implementing partner, was responsible for preparing project memos aimed at attracting private sector investment into hydropower development.

“This aligns with the broader national vision that sees energy not just as a commodity, but as the foundation for growth and progress,” he said.

The minister also underscored the role of hydropower in Nigeria’s energy transition, citing its technical advantages such as grid stability, efficiency, and its synergy with other renewable sources like solar and wind.

He urged members of the committee to remain committed to the project’s success, assuring them of the ministry’s readiness to address any challenges that may arise.

SPIN Project Manager, Mr Ipinlaye Olaiya, said the World Bank–International Development Association (IDA) intervention will enhance dam safety and support hydropower and irrigation development in selected areas.

According to him, Nigeria has set a target of 500,000 hectares for irrigated agriculture, underscoring the need for states to support the achievement of this goal.

He urged states to enact Water Users Association (WUA) laws to enable their participation in the project’s implementation.

The World Bank Task Team Leader for the SPIN project, Mr Chinedu Umolu, praised the federal government for its strong commitment to the project’s implementation.

He outlined the leadership shown by the government and its partner ministries as a clear sign of the dedication needed to drive the project to success.

“With this level of commitment, I am confident the federal government will achieve the objectives of the SPIN project,” he said.

Umolu noted that the project team is now fully launched and with sustained support from the ministries, the foundation for progress is in place.

He urged all stakeholders to match the government’s efforts with action to ensure nationwide impact on power and irrigation infrastructure.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inaugural meeting fulfils a statutory requirement for activating the World Bank financing arrangement.

The SPIN project is expected to boost Nigeria’s irrigation capacity, ensure dam safety, and revitalise rural economies in line with the country’s long-term development goals. (NAN)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

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