In a determined effort to ensure all 23 participating states meet the conditions precedent for the Nigeria Climate Adaptation–Erosion and Watershed Project NEWMAP-EIB, the Federal Project Management Unit FPMU, led by the National Project Coordinator, Engr. Anda Ayuba Yalaks, has visited Borno State to assess its readiness ahead of the project’s official launch.
To access NEWMAP-EIB funds, states are required to fulfill key operational prerequisites Conditions including the : provision of counterpart funding, establishment of project offices, recruitment of staff, acquisition of operational vehicles, development of Environmental and Social Management Frameworks and Resettlement Action Plans RAPs.
Others prerequisites includes adherence to the European Investment Bank’s (EIB) procurement guidelines, and verification of erosion sites as outlined in the criteria for site selection.
In a statement issued by Madina Gertrude the Communication Specialist NEWMAP-EIB
revealed that, Borno State has successfully met all requirements and is now qualified to receive disbursement from the Bank.
According to the statement, Engr. Yalaks disclosed this on Monday during a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umar Zulum, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mallam Bukar Tijjani, in Maiduguri.
Engr. Yalaks highlighted the transformative benefits of the NEWMAP-EIB intervention in Borno, noting that it will not only address erosion challenges but also boost socio-economic development across the state.
He added that the projects will also drive revenue generation, job creation, and promote climate-resilliant and climate smart agriculture.
He commended Governor Zulum for demonstrating strong political will, particularly through the release of ₦500 million as state government counterpart funding to the Project, which he described as a clear sign of highest level of government commitment.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, the SSG, Mallam Bukar Tijjani, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment and readiness to fully support the NEWMAP-EIB initiatives, stressing that the NEWMAP-EIB Project development objective aligns with Governor Zulum’s vision to improving the livelihoods of the good citizens of Borno.
He advised on the judicious utilization of the project funds for effective impact on the affected communities.
He further added that the state is fully committed to making available all that is needed to making the project succeed in Borno state, Tijjani assured.
In attendance at the meeting were the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Mohammed Habib; the Permanent Secretary, Comrade Juliana Bitrus; the FPMU, team; and staff of the SPMU.