The Cross River State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) of the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) Project has successfully concluded a two-day capacity-building workshop aimed at strengthening the team's capacity for effective project implementation, accountability, and sustainable results.
The workshop, held on October 15 and 16, 2026, at Dannic Hotels, Calabar, featured presentations by resource persons on common mistakes and pitfalls in project implementation, group dynamics and team building, understanding the Project Appraisal Document (PAD) and Project Implementation Manual (PIM), and sound financial management.
The sessions provided participants with opportunities to share experiences, exchange knowledge, and explore practical strategies for addressing implementation challenges, improving coordination, and ensuring compliance with project guidelines.
Declaring the workshop open, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, charged SPIU members to uphold accountability, professionalism, effective coordination, proper documentation, and prudent financial management in the discharge of their responsibilities.
He emphasised that successful project implementation must translate into tangible benefits for farmers and rural communities, particularly through improved irrigation services, year-round farming, increased food production, and enhanced livelihoods.
In her remarks, the State Project Coordinator, Engr. Mrs. Justina John Ulafor, welcomed participants and underscored the importance of continuous capacity development, collaboration, and a clear understanding of individual and departmental responsibilities. She stressed that effective teamwork and adherence to project implementation guidelines are essential to achieving the objectives of the SPIN Project in Cross River State.
SPIN is a Federal Government of Nigeria and World Bank-assisted project designed to improve irrigation services, strengthen dam safety and management, and support hydropower generation. Cross River State's participation in the project was facilitated by the groundwork laid through the Statewide Irrigation Infrastructure Development Programme (SWIID), an initiative of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, which helped position the state for participation.
One of the state's key interventions under the project is the proposed Bansara Irrigation Scheme in Ogoja Local Government Area. The scheme is expected to cover approximately 650 hectares, with the potential to unlock an additional 3,000 hectares for agricultural production, thereby expanding irrigation opportunities and strengthening food security.
The workshop concluded with a collective commitment by SPIU members to apply the knowledge gained, strengthen teamwork, comply with project implementation guidelines, and promote transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency in delivering the project's objectives for the benefit of Cross River State and its people.
By Blessing Enagu
