Niger Basin Authority Urges Swift Action on Water Projects

The Federal Government and the Niger Basin Authority (NBA) have called for the accelerated implementation of regional development projects, emphasizing the importance of sustainable financing, climate change adaptation, and effective management of shared water resources. This initiative aims to improve the livelihoods of over 200 million people across the Niger Basin.

The call was made following regional meetings held in Abuja from September 28 to October 9, 2026, which included representatives from nine member countries, development partners, and technical experts. Kocou Houanye, the NBA Executive Secretary, urged member countries to expedite ongoing projects, complete multipurpose water infrastructure, and strengthen institutional governance.

He highlighted that over 80 percent of jobs in the region are connected to water resources and stressed the need for investments to create economic opportunities. Houanye also called for urgent action on the Programme for Integrated Development and Adaptation to Climate Change in the Niger Basin (PIDACC/NB) and urged countries to sign the Framework Agreement on the Common Basket Fund by November 15, 2026.