Nigeria and NBA Push for Rapid Development in Niger Basin

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) have called for the accelerated implementation of development projects to enhance the livelihoods of over 200 million people living in the Niger Basin. This call was made at the conclusion of regional meetings organized by the NBA in Abuja from September 28 to October 9, 2026.

Mr. Kocou Armand Houanye, the Executive Secretary of the NBA, emphasized the importance of fast-tracking ongoing projects, completing multipurpose water infrastructure, and ensuring sustainable project outcomes. He highlighted the critical role of hydrodiplomacy, youth and women's participation, and climate change adaptation in achieving sustainable development.

Houanye urged member countries to sign the Framework Agreement on the Common Basket Fund by November 15, 2026, and improve access to Global Environment Facility resources. He reported that the physical implementation rate of the Programme for Integrated Development and Adaptation to Climate Change in the Niger Basin improved from 37 percent to nearly 50 percent between June 2025 and June 2026.