By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Katsina
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has released N500 million counterpart fund to ensure the success of the World Bank-assisted project “Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria” (SPIN).
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with the Federal Government to ensure the success of the World Bank-assisted project.
Governor Radda spoke ‘during a high-level meeting with a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, who were on a mission to inspect the newly established multi-billion naira Dam in Danja.
Governor Radda announced that the state government has already committed N500 million as its counterpart fund for the program, demonstrating the administration’s dedication to its effective implementation.
According to him, “Our focus will be on smaller dams and Fadama areas where a significant number of our people engage in irrigation activities.”
Governor Radda mentioned the recent establishment of the State Irrigation Management Authority and the assignment of experts to develop an irrigation master plan.
He further stated: “These initiatives are designed to create a sustainable roadmap for irrigation success in Katsina, extending beyond the current administration’s tenure.”
The Governor also recalled the recent launch of a community development programme, aimed at transferring ownership of government infrastructure to benefiting communities.
He said the innovative approach includes the formation of community-level committees responsible for project initiation, distribution, and protection against vandalism.
In her remarks, Engr. Hauwa Mohammed Saddiq, Deputy Director of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and leader of the delegation explained that SPIN represents the second phase following the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project.
She emphasized that SPIN, which focuses on irrigation modernization, dam rehabilitation, and harnessing hydro-power potential for cottage industries, aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
Also speaking, Dr. Bashir Gambo Saulawa, the Katsina State Commissioner of Water Resources, confirmed that the state has fulfilled all requirements for the programme, including the advance payment of the counterpart fund.
“The SPIN project is scheduled to commence in January 2025,” he added.
Our Correspondent reports that the collaboration between the Katsina State Government and the Federal Ministry of Water Resources is a shared commitment to sustainable development and improved agricultural productivity in the region.