The World Bank reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering Nigeria’s water, sanitation, and hygiene sector during a visit led by Dr. Ndiame Diop, the newly appointed Country Director.
This assurance came during discussions with Prof. Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, in Abuja on Monday.
Dr. Diop emphasised the World Bank’s readiness for a strengthened partnership with the ministry to enhance the effectiveness of water policies and programmes in the country. In response, Minister Utsev advocated for increased funding to bolster food security nationwide, citing its potential to generate employment and reduce crime.
Highlighting the importance of resource allocation for food security, Utsev underscored the need for a robust collaboration between the World Bank and the ministry to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly through initiatives like the Sustainable Power and Irrigation Project for Nigeria (SPIN).
The minister also commended the outgoing Country Director, Mr. Shubham Chaudhuri, for his exemplary service and extended well wishes for his future endeavours. He pledged support for Dr. Diop’s tenure, expressing optimism for a productive partnership aimed at achieving shared developmental objectives.
