FG seeks $500m World Bank loan for dam safety, others

The Federal Government of Nigeria has requested a $500 million loan from the World Bank to improve dam safety and enhance water resource management across the federation.

The loan will be used to address the country’s water security challenges and boost agricultural productivity through the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Project.

Here are some key aspects of the loan:

Project Focus Areas: The project will focus on four critical areas, including institutional strengthening and capacity building, irrigation modernization, improvements in dam operations and safety, and project management

Dam Safety:  The loan will be used to rehabilitate and enhance the safety of priority dams, including conducting risk assessments, preparing emergency action plans, and implementing structural safety improvements

Irrigation Modernization: The project will rehabilitate and modernize 40,000 hectares of irrigated land and establish and empower Water User Associations to manage irrigation schemes efficiently

Institutional Strengthening: The project will reinforce federal and state institutions responsible for water resource management, including developing national dam safety guidelines, training for water resources and irrigation management, and creating a comprehensive hydropower master plan

Project Timeline: The proposed approval date for the project is September 26, 2024