Abuja:The Federal Government and the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) have emphasized the need for accelerated implementation of development projects aimed at enhancing livelihoods and improving water resources management throughout the Niger Basin.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this call for action followed regional meetings organized by the NBA in Abuja from September 28 to October 9. These meetings gathered representatives from nine member countries, development partners, and other key stakeholders.
During a news conference, NBA Executive Secretary Mr. Kocou Houanye urged member countries to complete ongoing projects, provide necessary counterpart funding, and enhance regional cooperation. He highlighted the importance of climate adaptation, youth and women’s participation, and improved governance for sustainable development, noting that over 80 percent of jobs in the basin are related to water resources.
Mr. Houanye also stated that the Programme for Integrated Development and Adaptation to Climate Change in the Niger Basin (PIDACC/NB) is at a critical juncture and requires expedited delivery of pending infrastructure projects. He called on the concerned countries to sign the Framework Agreement on the Common Basket Fund by November 15 and finalize documentation to access Global Environment Facility (GEF) resources starting in November.
He reported that the physical implementation rate of PIDACC/NB increased from 37 percent in June 2025 to nearly 50 percent in June 2026, while the commitment rate grew from 49 percent to nearly 60 percent. This progress is attributed to institutional reforms and enhanced program management, and Mr. Houanye urged member countries to prioritize implementation and maintenance in their 2027 work plans.
The NBA has adopted its Strategic and Operational Plans for 2026-2030 and revised its administrative, financial, and procurement procedures to enhance governance and efficiency. Additionally, the authority is digitizing its water and environmental information systems and is working towards operationalizing the Regional Climate Change Adaptation Fund for the Niger Basin by early 2027.
Mr. Houanye also committed to fostering stronger partnerships with development finance institutions, the private sector, and research organizations, and to deepening cooperation with the Lake Chad Basin Commission.
Mr. Robert Umezulike, representing the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, praised the NBA, member countries, and development partners for their contributions to the meetings. He stressed the importance of applying the recommendations from the engagements to address challenges affecting PIDACC/NB sub-projects and infrastructure delivery, emphasizing that effective project implementation, regional cooperation, and proper maintenance of completed infrastructure are crucial for improving livelihoods throughout the basin.
The meetings addressed topics such as hydrodiplomacy, gender inclusion, water security, climate adaptation, infrastructure development, and program implementation.