15/04/2026
UNOPS/FPMU Joint Exploration Mission to Nasarawa State Day 1- Tuesday 14th April 2026
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), in collaboration with the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU), conducted its first joint exploratory mission to Nasarawa State, marking the commencement of engagement under the NEWMAP-EIB project.
The UNOPS delegation, led by the Senior Project Manager, Donato Serena and supported by technical specialists in M&E, GIS, social livelihood and other departments, undertook the visit alongside the FPMU team, led by the National Project Coordinator (NPC) ably represented by the Head of Administration, with support from technical and advisory FPMU staff.
The mission focused on stakeholder engagement, institutional alignment, and field-based assessments to better understand project priorities and ground realities.
During the opening session, the State Project Coordinator welcomed the delegation, while UNOPS outlined its mandate to provide integrated support across project management, iastructure delivery, and procurement, in compliance with EIB guidelines. The NPC’s representative emphasized the importance of evidence-based interventions and impact on affected communities.
A key highlight was the courtesy visit to the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Princess Dr. Margaret Elayo, where the delegation formally notified the Commissioner of the project’s commencement and reinforced collaboration.
The team reviewed documentary evidence of erosion-impacted areas and legacy NEWMAP (World Bank-funded) projects.
Field visits were conducted to priority sites, including:
*Tudun Kasira Erosion Site *Lafia Rice Mill (completed NEWMAP World Bank project)
*Gidi-Gidi Erosion Site
*Cassava Processing Centre, Konka
These visits provided critical insights into existing challenges, ongoing interventions, and opportunities for scaling impact.
