BENIN CITY — Edo State has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most prepared states for the implementation of the €175 million Nigeria Climate Adaptation–Erosion and Watershed Project (NEWMAP–EIB), launched in Abuja by the Federal Government in partnership with the European Investment Bank (EIB).
The project, designed to combat erosion, flooding, and climate-related disasters, is expected to benefit 23 states over a five-year period, with Edo positioned as a model of readiness and efficiency.
Representing Governor Monday Okpebholo at the national launch, Edo NEWMAP–EIB Coordinator, Hon. Bawa Mohammed Okoyomoh, said that the state had met all preconditions, including the payment of ₦800 million counterpart funding and the establishment of implementation structures.
“Edo State successfully implemented the World Bank–assisted NEWMAP and is now set to apply global best practices in climate adaptation and erosion control under this new phase,” Okoyomoh said.
Minister of Environment, Mr. Balarabe Abbas Lawal, who declared the project open, described it as a “lifeline initiative for communities threatened by environmental degradation,” announcing a ₦750 million Federal Government release to kickstart implementation.
EIB Regional Hub Representative, Mr. Roger Stuart, said the programme would help protect vulnerable communities, restore watersheds, and promote sustainable livelihoods across the participating states.
Also speaking, European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Gautier Mignot, noted that over 25,000 green jobs would be created through afforestation, soil conservation, and watershed restoration activities.
National Project Coordinator, Engr. Ayuba Yalaks, said the project will run from 2025 to 2030, focusing on climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable community-based interventions.
He commended Edo’s proactive commitment, describing it as a model of institutional readiness and accountability that other states should emulate.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s determination to sustain environmental reforms, strengthen disaster response systems, and expand Edo’s participation in international climate initiatives.
