Benue Set for Transformation via Federal Power and Water Projects

A new dawn of agricultural and energy security is approaching Benue State as it integrates into the federal government’s Sustainable Power and Irrigation Project for Nigeria (SPIN). Professor Joseph Utsev, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, revealed the details of this ambitious initiative during a celebratory reception in his honor at the Utse Akaa community within the Buruku Local Government Area. The project represents a significant leap forward in the state’s quest to modernize its infrastructure and provide long-term economic stability for its residents.

The SPIN project is a major collaborative effort between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the World Bank, backed by a substantial $500 million loan facility. Its primary objective is the comprehensive rehabilitation and upgrading of existing dams across the nation. By improving dam safety and operational capacity, the government intends to significantly boost hydropower generation and expand large-scale irrigation farming. For a state often referred to as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” these upgrades are expected to be game-changers for local agricultural productivity.

During his address, Professor Utsev highlighted that the Mbagen community is positioned to be a primary beneficiary of these developments. The project is designed to create a ripple effect of progress, ranging from enhanced electricity supply to the massive creation of local jobs. Already, a strategic site has been identified along the banks of the River Katsina-Ala, and technical teams are expected to begin work on the ground shortly. This localized focus ensures that the benefits of the $500 million investment are felt directly by the host communities.

In addition to the SPIN initiative, the Minister announced the imminent commencement of the Dura Multipurpose Dam. This specific project is a direct response to the perennial flooding that has long plagued the Ugbema-Gboko Road, often cutting off vital transport links and destroying farms. By acting as a reservoir to control water flow, the Dura Dam will not only protect the surrounding environment from seasonal disasters but will also contribute additional clean energy to the national grid through its own hydropower components.

The regional water supply is also receiving a massive overhaul through the reconstruction of the Ugbema-Ameladu-Gboko Water Project. Professor Utsev noted that this major scheme is progressing steadily and is designed to provide safe, sustainable drinking water to five major local government areas: Gboko, Buruku, Tarka, Ushongo, and parts of Katsina-Ala. The project aims to solve decades-long water scarcity issues, improving the public health and quality of life for hundreds of thousands of Benue citizens.

Local leaders have expressed strong support for the Minister’s efforts to attract federal attention to the state. Honorable Sekav Iortyom, representing the Buruku Federal Constituency, and the Ter Buruku, HRH Chief Moses Hanior, both commended Professor Utsev for using his office to drive grassroots development. They noted that the ongoing projects in Mbagen and Buruku are a testament to the effectiveness of the current administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

Community voices are also playing a role in shaping the future of the region. Mr. Solomon Shimsenge, President-General of the Mbagen Development Association, used the occasion to advocate for the establishment of a Technical College in the area. He argued that such an institution would complement the new infrastructure by providing youths with the vocational skills needed to maintain and profit from the modern irrigation and power systems being installed.

As these multi-billion naira projects move from planning to execution, the synergy between federal initiatives and local needs appears to be at an all-time high. For Benue State, the combination of the SPIN project, the Dura Dam, and the expanded water schemes offers a roadmap toward a future defined by industrial growth and reliable utility services. The Minister urged the people to remain united and supportive of the government to ensure the timely and successful delivery of these life-altering infrastructures.