NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
FG urges World Bank to support dam upgrade, irrigation expansion
Agriculture

FG urges World Bank to support dam upgrade, irrigation expansion

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By Akpan Glory

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has urged the World Bank to increase its support for Nigeria’s plans to upgrade existing dams and develop new irrigation systems.

He said the enhanced support would help advance the Federal Government’s vision of achieving food security and boosting hydropower generation.

Utsev made the appeal on Friday while receiving a World Bank delegation led by its Senior Water Resources Management Specialist, Mr Chinedu Umolu in Abuja.

He noted that the World Bank has played a huge role in supporting Nigeria’s water resources sector by funding transformative projects.

However, he added that additional assistance is now required to meet the growing demands of the agricultural and energy sectors.

“With the administration of President Bola Tinubu fully committed to upgrading existing dams and constructing new ones, there is a pressing need for increased investment in these critical infrastructures.

“This will help scale up irrigation farming, boost food production, generate employment, and enhance hydropower supply,” the minister said.

Utsev added that several states have expressed interest in participating in the upcoming Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) project, underscoring the need for more financial backing to allow widespread implementation.

He assured the World Bank of the federal government’s commitment to a smooth rollout of the project and long-term partnership.

In his remarks, Umolu said the visit was to brief the minister on the successful completion of the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project, which is set to close in June.

He praised the support of the Tinubu administration and commended Utsev’s proactive leadership in facilitating the commencement of the SPIN project.

“The enthusiasm shown by states in joining the SPIN project speaks volumes about the federal government’s commitment to transforming irrigation and power infrastructure.

“The World Bank remains committed to supporting these efforts to ensure they have lasting impact on the livelihoods of Nigerians,” Umolu said.

The SPIN project is expected to build on the successes of TRIMING, which focused on modernising irrigation systems, improving water management, and increasing agricultural productivity in key farming regions. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

FG targets irrigation to boost food security
Agriculture , Food Security

FG targets irrigation to boost food security

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By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening food security in Nigeria through strategic support for farmers, improved irrigation systems, and climate resilience measures.

Speaking at the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, announced plans to commission 11 new projects in 2025.

According to him, these include dams, irrigation schemes, and water supply systems in Benue, Jigawa, and Yobe; key agricultural zones with high food production potential.

Utsev revealed that the ministry was implementing the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) project, in collaboration with 20 states, to modernise dam and irrigation infrastructure and develop a national hydropower masterplan.

The states involved are Adamawa, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Delta, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara.

The minister said the River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs), the ministry’s implementing agencies, had supported farmers with more than 154,000 hectares of irrigated land.

“In addition, tractors and harvesters have been distributed to enhance mechanised farming. As part of ongoing reforms, over 4,400 hectares of farmland have been leased to commercial farmers to expand food production,” he said.

He noted that investments in human capital were also underway, with the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI) recently graduating more than 230 postgraduate students in Integrated Water Resources Management.

He added that more than 1,300 young people had been trained in technical fields such as pump installation and drilling technology.

Utsev said the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency had intensified early flood warning efforts in response to the impact of climate change on farming communities.

“More than 1,200 communities in 30 states have been identified as flood-prone in 2025. In response, the Nigerian National Flood Insurance Programme was launched in April to provide financial protection for vulnerable households and farmers.

“We are proactively addressing climate risks through science-based early warning systems and financial safety nets,” he stated.

The minister explained that the RBDAs were being partially commercialised to attract private sector participation, reclaim encroached farmlands, and improve sustainability and investment in the agriculture sector.


He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support and acknowledged the efforts of state governments, development partners, stakeholders, and the media.

“We remain committed to transforming Nigeria’s irrigation landscape, improving access to safe water, creating jobs, and reducing poverty,” he added.

Earlier, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated that Nigeria’s inflation slowed to 2.06 per cent in April, down from 2.18 per cent in March, due to price drops in staple foods like maize flour, rice, and beans.

Idris attributed the progress to strategic government interventions in agriculture, transport, and essential services.

“While we are not yet where we want to be, these numbers give us hope. The tough decisions are starting to yield results,” he said.

Idris highlighted key investments in infrastructure, water, sanitation, and the creative economy, noting the Tinubu administration’s focused on restoring Nigeria’s global prominence.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to people-centred policies aimed at economic stability and called on the media to share the positive developments responsibly and patriotically.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the session was also attended by the Ministers of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, and Works, Sen. David Umahi. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Youth, women vital to advancing irrigated agriculture in Africa – Experts
Agriculture , Food Security

Youth, women vital to advancing irrigated agriculture in Africa – Experts

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By Tosin Kolade

Irrigation and water management experts have called for the inclusion of women and young professionals in advancing irrigated agriculture across Africa.

This call was a central theme at the 6th African Irrigation and Drainage (ARCID) Conference, which concluded with an award ceremony on Wednesday night in Abuja.

Mrs Oyeronke Oluniyi, Chairperson of the Nigerian National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (NINCID), told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the conference stood out for its strong engagement with young professionals from six African countries.

“The level of participation, knowledge-sharing, and innovation brought by these young professionals was impressive.

“They are no longer just learners; they are ready to lead and drive meaningful change in irrigation development across the continent”.

According to Oluniyi, who is also the Director of Irrigation and Drainage at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, a key highlight of the conference was a field visit to an irrigation site near Keffi, Nasarawa.

She described the visit as “a practical eye-opener” that provided real-world insight into the challenges and opportunities within irrigation practice.

She emphasised the importance of harnessing the creativity and energy of young people to promote sustainable agriculture in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“These young minds are well-positioned to contribute to food security, effective water resource management, and increased agricultural productivity,” she said.

Oluniyi also pointed to a pre-conference youth forum, which provided a platform for delegates from various countries to collaborate, network, and exchange ideas.

Their engagement in the main sessions, she said, brought fresh perspectives to the discussions.

She added that it was inspiring to witness Nigerian youth engaging and forming connections with their peers from across the continent.

“The conference also featured a dedicated session on women’s participation in irrigated agriculture, aimed at empowering women and addressing barriers such as limited access to land and other essential resources.

“During the session, two female farmers; one from the Hadejia Valley Irrigation Project in Jigawa and another from the Kano River Irrigation Scheme in Zamfara, shared their personal stories of transformation and empowerment.

“Their journeys demonstrate that when women are supported, they not only thrive but also uplift others in their communities.

“In essence, our youth and women are not merely participants, but are agents of transformation. With the right support, they can help lead Nigeria and Africa towards a more food-secure and climate-resilient future, “Oluniyi said.

Also speaking at the event, President of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), Dr Marco Arcieri, described the conference as a significant milestone for Africa.

He called for greater collaboration and networking to address shared challenges, including water scarcity and food insecurity.

“There are important lessons to take forward. From now on, we must strengthen cooperation and improve coordination to meet our development goals”.

Arcieri also commended the Nigerian National Committee for hosting the event with the backing of the Federal Government, including support from the Ministries of Water Resources, Agriculture, and the Presidency.

“This conference will leave a lasting impact, and ICID remains committed to supporting future progress,” he added.

Mr Inuwa Musa, Co-chair of the 6th ARCID Task Team noted that while advancements are being made, they must be accelerated to meet the demands of a growing population and the increasing impacts of climate change.

“To ensure food security, irrigation must be prioritised, we cannot break the cycle of poverty by farming for just four months a year. Sustainable, year-round food production depends on effective irrigation systems”.

Kuta, representing the Chairman of the African Regional Working Group, also stressed the importance of regional collaboration, particularly when it comes to managing shared water resources.

“Development does not happen in isolation. We must resolve conflicts over transboundary resources like the Niger Basin. There is enough water to meet our needs, though perhaps not our greed. We must learn to share wisely”.

Similarly, an Irrigation and Drainage Expert Mr Razaq Jimoh noted the urgency of scaling up action.

While acknowledging that Africa is on the right path, he warned that progress remains slow, especially given shifting rainfall patterns and other climate-related challenges.

Jimoh, a former Managing Director/CEO of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, reiterated the need for year-round food production.

“You cannot end poverty by farming for only a few months and surviving on that harvest for the rest of the year.

“The only viable solution is to produce food throughout the year, and that requires functional irrigation systems”.

He also called for an end to disputes over shared water resources, emphasising the need for equitable access and cooperation.

“Most conflicts in inter-basin and transboundary areas stem from unequal access, but there’s enough to meet our collective needs if we prioritise and collaborate”.

In his speech, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, emphasised the need for partnerships and greater investment in irrigation to tackle climate change, population growth, and food insecurity.

Utsev commended the efforts of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), the African Regional Working Group, and all participating countries for their dedication to the conference’s goals.

He noted that their collaborative work would pave the way for developing actionable strategies in the irrigation and drainage sector for both Nigeria and the African continent.

Utsev was represented by Mr Moses Jo-Madugu, Director Reforms Coordination with the ministry.

He stressed the importance of collaboration, innovation, and ensuring accessible water resources for farmers to foster prosperity across Africa.

The conference concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders across the continent to promote inclusive participation, enhance irrigation infrastructure, and foster regional cooperation to strengthen Africa’s agricultural resilience.

NAN reports that several distinguished individuals were recognised at the award ceremony for their contributions to leadership and governance in the water and agriculture sectors. (NAN)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

IWMI unveils strategy to boost water, agriculture innovation
Agriculture , Food Security

IWMI unveils strategy to boost water, agriculture innovation

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By Tosin Kolade

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) has introduced its 2024-2030 strategy to drive innovation in water management and agricultural practices in Nigeria.

This announcement was made at the sidelines of the Africa Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja on Monday.

IWMI Director General, Dr Mark Smith, presented practical, science-based solutions to Africa’s pressing water challenges.

“The IWMI Strategy 2024-2030 outlines an ambitious agenda for research and innovation in water security.

“It tackles current and future water management challenges, aiming to advance Sustainable Development Goal 6 on water and sanitation.

“The strategy aligns with national and regional priorities and is backed by an action plan to boost partnerships, growth, and impact,” he said.

Smith noted that while Africa’s water challenges are vast, so too are the opportunities.

He emphasised the importance of focusing on practical, inclusive, and climate-smart solutions.

“At IWMI, we are working to restore watersheds, modernise irrigation, promote water reuse, and empower farmers with tools that enhance productivity and resilience,” he said.

Smith outlined four strategic pathways for agricultural transformation that align with the African Union’s vision: watershed restoration, improved irrigation system performance, water reuse, and farmer-led irrigation.

He listed examples of IWMI’s work, such as in Ethiopia’s Yeboa Watershed, where interventions like terracing and contour farming have greatly reduced soil erosion and improved groundwater recharge.

These efforts, he said, have expanded irrigable land fivefold, creating new agricultural and economic opportunities, particularly for young people.

“In Mali, IWMI collaborated with the Office du Niger to co-develop performance indicators for irrigation schemes.

“This data-driven approach has enabled targeted investments and smarter water management, leading to improved efficiency and increased yields.

“IWMI is also promoting the safe reuse of wastewater for agriculture, which reduces pressure on freshwater sources, improves soil fertility, and recovers valuable nutrients.

“Our work in promoting water reuse is not just about alleviating the strain on freshwater systems, but also enhancing agricultural sustainability and supporting a circular economy,” Smith noted.

Dr Funke Cofie, IWMI’s Africa Director for Research Impact, emphasised the institute’s broader commitment to sustainability and resilience.

“We generate knowledge and evidence-based solutions to improve water use, ranging from rain-fed systems to full irrigation.

“Our work focuses on environmental sustainability, climate adaptation, and preparing communities to manage risks like flooding”.

Cofie highlighted IWMI’s role in developing Nigeria’s flood early warning and anticipatory response system, known as the AWARE platform.

“Using satellite data, the platform helps predict flood events and supports timely, community-level action to mitigate impacts. This approach moves us from reactive disaster management to proactive planning

“We are here to catalyse change. Whether in the arid north or the south, we are committed to turning knowledge into tangible impact and delivering sustainable solutions across Nigeria,” she said.

She said that during the two-day conference, IWMI hosted five technical sessions on key themes such as digital innovations in water management, farmer-led irrigation, and the water-energy-food-environment nexus.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)  reports that the institute also launched new training tools for irrigated rice production in Africa.

With its new office and strategy now in place, IWMI is set to deepen its engagement in Nigeria, working closely with public institutions, research organisations, and local communities to address region-specific water challenges.

NAN also reports that IWMI has opened its new office at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan. (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

FG declares national emergency on food security
Agriculture , Food Security

FG declares national emergency on food security

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By Tosin Kolade

President Bola Tinubu on Monday declared a national emergency on food security, urging expanded irrigation infrastructure and participatory water resource management nationwide.

Tinubu made the declaration while opening the 6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja.

He was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume.

He urged African nations to adopt innovative strategies in addressing the continent’s irrigation and water management challenges.

He described the conference theme, “Tackling Irrigation Development and Water Management Crisis in Africa”, as a clarion call to action for sustainable agriculture and economic resilience.

“Africa continues to face major challenges in unlocking its irrigation potential due to inadequate infrastructure, financial constraints, climate change, and governance issues.

“This conference offers a vital platform for us to collectively chart a path forward”.

Tinubu stated that the country had more than 3.1 million hectares of irrigable land located around key river basins such as the Niger and Benue.

In his remarks, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, said the government had completed several landmark initiatives under the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project.

He announced that its successor, the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project, would address outstanding gaps while optimising the economic value of water resources to support food security.

“With the TRIMING project winding down, Nigeria is poised to begin implementation of the SPIN project in partnership with the World Bank.

“This initiative will consolidate on the successes of TRIMING and expand our irrigation potential,” Utsev said.

According to the minister, the TRIMING project, which spanned more than seven years, delivered notable achievements, including the completion of the Dadin-Kowa and Bakolori irrigation schemes and 90 per cent completion of the Middle Rima Valley irrigation project.

It also supported ongoing interventions in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo States.

He also noted that the project established Water Users Associations (WUAs), farmer management centres, and supported market linkages for key value chains such as rice and tomato.

The minister further revealed that River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) had developed more than 153,000 hectares of irrigable land and were being partially commercialised to attract private sector investment.

He also referenced the 2025 Flood Outlook and Risk Management Strategy, aimed at minimising flood-related impacts on agriculture.

“This conference is a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collective commitment to resolving Africa’s pressing irrigation and water management issues,” he added.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Didi Wilson-Jack, called for renewed commitment across all tiers of government to ensure national food security.

Former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Mr Godknows Igali, underscored the urgency of strategic planning, particularly in the face of Nigeria’s growing population.

He stressed the importance of professional staffing and proper management of river basins, adding that sub-national governments must play an active role in water governance and food systems.

Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, raised concerns over the shrinking farming seasons caused by climate change, warning that unpredictable rainfall patterns were creating uncertainty among farmers.

“Our fertile lands are turning to dust. Irrigation is now a necessity, not a luxury.

“Innovation must not be seen as a privilege of the few, we must empower women and youth who are at the frontline of agriculture,” Zulum said

He appealed to development partners to show greater responsiveness to the challenges of water access and rural farming in Africa.

President of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), Dr Marco Arcieri, described the conference as both timely and essential.

“This could be a turning point. We’ve celebrated big ideas and set tangible goals to confront the pressing challenges.

“We remain committed to supporting Africa as it faces population growth and climate stress,” Arcieri stated.

It may be recalled that he had earlier addressed participants at the Young Professionals’ Forum, a pre-conference event which gathered emerging leaders in irrigation and water management across Africa.

Arcieri emphasised the role of young professionals in driving sustainable solutions to the continent’s water challenges.

Mr Ibrahim Musa, who leads the African Regional Working Group, expressed optimism that the conference would lead to innovative approaches and actionable outcomes in addressing Africa’s unique irrigation development needs.

The conference continues in Abuja until April 17, with technical sessions, policy dialogues, and field visits to irrigation sites across Nigeria. (NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Minister inspects Makurdi irrigation project, opens access road
Agriculture

Minister inspects Makurdi irrigation project, opens access road

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By Onyeje Abutu-Joel

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, on Friday inspected the Makurdi irrigation farm project and commissioned the Ugodo community access road.

Utsev, while inspecting the farm at Mbakuv in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue, said the farm has over 3,000 hectares of irrigable land.

He explained that 1,200 out of the 3,000 hectares would be used for irrigation farming, while the remaining 1,800 hectares would be allocated to the upcoming Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project.

He stated that while 400 hectares had already been cleared and were in use, a contract had been awarded for the study and design of the remaining 600 hectares, which was at an advanced stage.

The minister also noted that, to facilitate the expansion of the existing irrigation farm, a contract had been awarded for the construction of water channels.

“We have given a contract for the construction of irrigation channels, and we also gave a contract for drip irrigation and for the study and design for the expansion of the existing irrigation farm.

“The contractor handling the construction of the channels is doing very well because the construction of the channel is almost 90 per cent completed, while the drip irrigation is about 67 per cent completed.

“We have garden eggs, maize and pepper cultivated, and you can see that they are doing very well,” he said.

Utsev also disclosed that the Otukpo Multipurpose Dam, which is 50 per cent complete, had been included in the 2025 budget and would be completed.

He added that the ministry was also considering generating power at the dam to improve electricity supply in the country.

At the commissioning of the 1.5-kilometre Ugodo Community access road, Utsev said the road would enable the community to transport their agricultural produce to the town.

He stated that the road would also enhance the overall socio-economic well-being of the community.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, urged the people to continue supporting the minister to ensure more democratic benefits.

Pheelangwah noted that more projects would be implemented with the people’s support and cooperation with the Minister.

Also, HRH Ter Makurdi, Chief Vincent Ahule, commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Utsev and Sen. George Akume as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Ahule stated that the people of Benue stood behind the President and would support his bid for a second term. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Boosting post-flood farming through ‘Residual Moisture Crop Production’ in Kebbi
Agriculture , Features

Boosting post-flood farming through ‘Residual Moisture Crop Production’ in Kebbi

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By Muhammad Lawal, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Flooding is a natural disaster that happens when water spills over into usually dry land, often resulting in extensive damage.

It can be caused by heavy downpours or human factors such as deforestation and inadequate urban planning.

Nigeria has faced severe river and coastal flooding, leading to substantial destruction.

In 2012, excessive rainfall caused the Niger and Benue Rivers to overflow, impacting communities across 30 states.

Over 2.3 million people were displaced, more than 360 lives were lost, and economic losses reached ₦2.6 trillion ($7.4 billion).

A decade later, in 2022, another major flood affected 33 states, displacing 1.4 million people and killing over 600.

Kogi, Anambra, and Bayelsa were among the worst affected due to intense rainfall and the release of water from Ladgo Dam in Cameroon.

Evidently, the consequences of flooding are severe, ranging from loss of life and destruction of property to economic hardship and displacement of entire communities.

Albeit the inevitability of floods, analysts believe that proactive measures can help mitigate their impact.

According to them, floodplain management, control structures, early warnings, and watershed management are crucial for reducing risks and improving preparedness.

They argued that to safeguard communities, Nigeria must prioritise urban drainage improvements, river dredging, and enhanced flood mitigation policies.

Kebbi was among the hardest-hit areas during the 2024 rainy season, with devastating floods leaving many farmers impoverished and homeless.

Media reports indicate that severe flooding in the state in 2024 affected 16 of its 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs), with Argungu, Birnin Kebbi, Ngaski, Jega, and others worst hit.

The disaster destroyed about 329,000 homes and submerged 858,000 hectares of farmland used for rice, millet, sorghum, and beans.

Tragically, 29 people died, with fatalities recorded in Ngaski, Maiyama, Kalgo, Jega, and Birnin Kebbi.

To support farmers and mitigate crop losses, Gov. Nasir Idris introduced the ‘Residual Moisture for Cultivation of Crops’ strategy.

This method uses moisture left by the floods to irrigate fast-growing crops, helping farmers recover and turn adversity into opportunity.

The initiative provided farmers with improved seeds for potatoes, cassava, and maize, as well as fertilisers and chemicals; all free of charge.

The goal was to help them recover their losses and resume normal agricultural activities.

Under the scheme, no fewer than 16,000 farmers benefitted from government support to rebuild their livelihoods.

During an inspection tour of the affected communities, Alhaji Shehu Ma’azu, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources in Kebbi, provided insights into the programme’s objectives.

He revealed that the pilot scheme was implemented in Raha (Bunza LGA), Bahindin Bagugo (Bagudo LGA), and Mayalo (Maiyama LGA), where farmers received essential agricultural inputs.

“When the devastating floods struck, the state government, through this ministry, promptly supplied improved seeds, fertilisers, and chemicals to support affected farmers.

“We are happy that the selected farmers used the seeds, fertilisers, and other inputs supplied to them very well. Today, we are here to inspect what you have done and report back to the governor what we saw.

“Glory be to God Almighty, these people have recovered, and the seeds supplied to them were fantastic as they yielded the desired results,” Ma’azu stated.

Similarly, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed-BK, Commissioner for Information and Culture, underscored the importance of food security, urging farmers to remain steadfast in their work.

“Everybody’s concern today is about what to eat, indicating that food is critical to human existence.

“Farm is wealth,” he remarked, encouraging farmers to stay committed to agriculture.

He also called on communities to pray for the success of Gov. Idris’ administration, which has prioritised youth and farmer empowerment.

The initiative has been widely praised by the beneficiaries, with many confirming its positive impact on their lives.

Speaking on behalf of the affected farmers, Alhaji Abubakar Walin-Raha, who represented the District Head of Raha, commended the governor for his foresight and proactive approach.

“We are very happy that these seeds are extremely good. We used them and saw how effective they are.

“We want to plead with the state government to assist us with pumping machines so that we can embark on irrigation of these three crops,” he appealed.

Similarly, Malam Bala Dan-Malam, a peasant farmer in Raha, expressed deep appreciation for the government’s intervention.

He noted that the initiative had boosted their morale and improved their farming methods.

He also urged the state government to consider expanding the scheme into an all-year-round farming system to ensure continuous agricultural productivity.

Other farmers shared their experiences and hopes for the future.

Alhaji Bawa Sani, Sarkin Noman Raha, emphasised the need for continued government support.

“We are very grateful to the Kauran Gwandu administration. This scheme has actually turned our pains into wealth because all those who participated are now very happy due to high yields.

“As farmers, we would be delighted if this scheme is extended to others affected by floods across the state. I believe this will go a long way in cushioning the effects of the disaster”.

Likewise, Alhaji Tukur Umar, District Head of Bahindin Bagugo, confirmed that after planting the seeds, he also received three truckloads of fertiliser, which he distributed among 40 village heads in his district.

A veteran farmer, Malam Abubakar Mai-Kifi, who has been in agriculture for over 40 years, described the government-provided maize seeds as the best he had ever used.

Another beneficiary, Malam Musa Mai-Dala’ilu, revealed how the initiative had encouraged more people, including those who had never farmed before, to embrace agriculture.

Also, Alhaji Muhammad Sani, Marafan Mayalo, expressed gratitude to Gov. Idris for his commitment to restoring livelihoods.

“We are happy that after the flood, life is returning to normal.

“We appreciate the governor for this gesture and also for reconstructing the collapsed bridge during the rainy season,” he concluded.

Stakeholders say With the Residual Moisture Crop Production initiative, Kebbi is setting a precedent in flood recovery efforts, turning adversity into opportunity.

This programme, they said ensures that affected communities can rebuild stronger and develop more resilient agricultural systems.  (NANFeatures)

Water, Power ministries sign MOU on 0m irrigation, hydropower project
Agriculture , Food Security

Water, Power ministries sign MOU on $500m irrigation, hydropower project

585 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, and the Ministry of Power, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the implementation of the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project.

The 500 million dollars World Bank SPIN project aims to enhance dam safety and improve water resource management for hydropower and irrigation across 25 states.

At the signing ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, said that the joint effort reflects the synergy required to implement transformational projects.

Utsev stated that the ministry’s mandate includes boosting food production, creating jobs for women and youth, and strengthening Nigeria’s economy.

“Today’s occasion marks another step towards achieving these goals and repositioning the country,” he stated.

He said that the initiative, approved by President BolaTinubu, reflected the administration’s commitment to inter-ministerial collaboration for delivering democratic dividends to Nigerians.

Utsev also acknowledged the ongoing support of the World Bank, describing it as a trusted partner in Nigeria’s development journey.

He cited initiatives like the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project, concluding in January 2025, as foundations for innovative solutions in water and agriculture.

“We are confident that the SPIN project will build on this legacy by boosting food production and meeting the irrigation needs of our growing population,” he added.

As Chairman of the SPIN Preparatory Team, Utsev assured stakeholders of the ministries’ and partners’ full commitment to the successful implementation of the project.

“Our collective efforts have brought us to this significant moment, and I am confident that SPIN will deliver the tangible benefits Nigerians are eagerly anticipating,” he said.

Earlier, the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, noted the importance of the partnership in achieving sustainable hydropower development and enhancing energy security across Nigeria.

He noted that while Nigeria is rich in water resources across its river basins, only about 2 per cent of the country’s estimated 14 gigawatts of hydropower potential has been harnessed.

“The signing of this MOU is a key step in ensuring Nigeria’s energy future is powered by clean, renewable sources, in line with the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan.

“We aim to optimise our natural resources, diversify our energy mix, and tackle climate change,” Adelabu said.

He emphasised that fully exploiting this potential could transform Nigeria’s energy landscape and providing sustainable power for millions.

He said under Tinubu’s leadership, the administration has committed to addressing energy challenges by prioritising energy’s vital role in economic growth and job creation.

“As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government has introduced several legislative and policy measures, including the Electricity Act 2023, which decentralises the electricity market and allows subnational governments to participate.”

Adelabu also stressed the role of distributed energy systems in enhancing reliability.

“Decentralised power generation enables local governments and private investors to develop embedded energy systems, reducing risks to national grid infrastructure.

“This, alongside our renewable energy potential, especially in solar and hydropower, forms the foundation of our sustainable energy strategy.”

He pointed out that Nigeria’s northern states, with 8 to 12 hours of sunshine daily, offer opportunities for solar power, while hydropower remains key to the energy mix.

Adelabu reaffirmed that harnessing hydropower potential and fostering partnerships would ensure a reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy future for Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 25 states have shown interest in SPIN project; Benue, Katsina, Akwa Ibom, Niger, Gombe, Sokoto, Enugu, Bauchi, Cross River, and Nasarawa.

Others are Ekiti, Kebbi, Plateau, Ebonyi, Zamfara, Abia, Kwara, Imo, Taraba, Kano, Delta, Osun, Jigawa, Edo, and Kogi. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Water ministry, SON partner to improve irrigation water quality
Agriculture

Water ministry, SON partner to improve irrigation water quality

537 total views today

By Tosin Kolade

The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has partnered with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to enhance the quality of irrigation water in the country.

This was the focus of the Technical Committee on Water Quality meeting for the development of the Nigerian Standard for Irrigation Water Quality in Abuja.

The collaboration aims to develop and implement robust irrigation water quality standards that align with global best practices.

Mrs Oyeronke Oluniyi, Director of Irrigation and Drainage at the ministry, described the initiative as crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and advancing Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

She added that the partnership aimed to improve water quality, support farmers, and safeguard ecosystems.

“The ministry has been working to raise awareness about water quality by discouraging practices such as washing clothes in irrigation systems and open defecation.

“This is crucial because many food products are consumed raw and unprocessed, making it essential to ensure the availability of quality water for agricultural purposes”.

The director further stated that the ministry would transfer the project to SON while maintaining a supervisory role.

Earlier, Mrs Elizabeth Ugoh, Director of Water Quality Control and Sanitation at the ministry, emphasised that validating irrigation standards would help tackle key development challenges in Nigeria.

She said the ministry was committed to validating irrigation standards to boost food security, nutrition, productivity, and socio-economic development.

“Since 2022, the committee has been critically reviewing the documents, aiming to develop irrigation water quality standards tailored to Nigeria’s needs for effective agricultural practices”.

Ugoh also stressed the need to address poor monitoring and evaluation and to conduct regular reviews for sustainable progress.

Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, SON Director General, announced the release of two key documents to enhance national standardisation.

He was represented by the Deputy Director, Food and Agriculture Group, Mrs Nene Obianwu.

“These are the Principles and Procedures for the Development of the Nigerian National Standards (PPDNNS) and the Nigerian National Standardisation Strategy (NNSS).

“These documents provide guidelines aligned with international best practices, with the NNSS outlining a four-year plan to address Nigeria’s environmental and socio-economic priorities,” Okeke said.

He stressed that forming a National Technical Committee was essential for implementing these standards and urged effective discussions to finalise the draft.

“Water is vital for agriculture, directly impacting crop yield, soil health, and food security.

“With challenges like climate change and population growth, improving water management, especially in irrigation, is essential,” he added.

He further emphasised that developing a Nigerian Standard for Irrigation Water Quality was key to protect crops from harmful contaminants, which threatened public health and economic growth.

Okeke noted that these efforts supported Nigeria’s commitment to the UN’s SDGs and encouraged participants to contribute their expertise in developing a framework for sustainable irrigation water safety.

He also acknowledged the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation’s support in advancing the project.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Standard for Irrigation Water Quality outlines the quality requirements, classification, and test methods for irrigation water in Nigeria.

The Standard applies to any water used for irrigation purposes, regardless of its source. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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