By Akpan Glory

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has urged collaborative efforts to harness water resources for food security and poverty alleviation in Nigeria.

Utsev made the call at the Stakeholders’ Sensitisation Workshop on the National Action Plan for the newly developed flagship programmes on Thursday in Abuja.

They are; River Basin Strategy for Poverty Alleviation (RB-SPA), the Water for Expanded Irrigated Agriculture Programme (WEIRPRO), and the Partnership for Expanded Irrigation Programme (PEIRPRO).

He emphasised the importance of tackling the challenges facing the nation through food security.

“Harnessing Nigeria’s abundant water resources can boost food security, create jobs, and reduce poverty.

“President Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda highlights food security and poverty eradication. We must translate these priorities into impactful actions.

“These programmes signify a paradigm shift in managing water resources and agriculture, unlocking our river basins’ potential for sustainable livelihoods and economic growth,” he explained.

He noted that the initiatives were conceived through the ministry’s Department of River Basin Operations and Inspectorate to transform Nigeria’s irrigated agricultural landscape, stimulate economic growth, and create jobs.

“The RB-SPA prioritises interventions to enhance agricultural productivity, promote inclusive economic growth, and alleviate poverty in river basin areas.

“WEIRPRO and PEIRPRO focus on expanding irrigated agriculture, harnessing water resources to boost yields and livelihoods while driving economic prosperity,” Utsev said.

He stated that presentations at the workshop would address challenges and opportunities in water resources management, including “Harnessing Water Resources for Food Security” and “Expanding Irrigation in Nigeria”.

These, he added aim to provide a comprehensive foundation for understanding water’s role in food security and sustainable development.

In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, highlighted the global importance of enhancing water resources to support farmers and promote sustainable development.

He expressed optimism that the presentations would address key challenges and opportunities in water resources management.

“The workshop is expected to provide global best practices to meet farmers’ needs and foster sustainable development.

“Considering the calibre of participants here, I have no doubt justice will be done in the presentations and deliberations”.

An expert in the water sector and lead paper presenter, Mr John Ochigbo, called for innovative technologies in the sector to maintain the ecosystem and achieve food security in Nigeria.

He emphasised the need for infrastructure, conservation, and public-private collaboration in water management.

Ochigbo stated that food security requires affordability, accessibility, and nutrition, not just availability.

Mrs Christy Oduh, Director of River Basin Operations and Inspectorate, emphasised that collaboration and dedication are crucial for advancing water resources development and achieving sustainable goals in the sector.

The workshop included presentations by water resources experts, such as Benson Ajisegiri and Elijah Aderibigbe, focusing on irrigation expansion, water resource management, and the revitalisation of the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene sector.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that participants at the meeting included Managing Directors of River Basin Development Authorities, government agencies, CSOs, and private sector representatives.

The meeting is expected to strengthen partnerships, develop a concrete action plan to implement the flagship programmes and harness water resources for food security and poverty alleviation in Nigeria. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Tosin Kolade