By Fatima Saka
The 6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage (ARCID 2025) has ended with resounding resolutions, called for inclusive participation, climate-smart irrigation, and strengthened regional cooperation to revolutionize water resource management across the continent.
At the closing of ARCID 2025 in Abuja on Wednesday, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, the Director of Reforms Coordination at the Ministry, Mr. Moses Jo-Madugu, applauded delegates for their dedication and active engagement throughout the conference.
“It gives me great pleasure to address you as we close this impactful gathering of policymakers, experts, practitioners, and partners united by a common vision of transforming Africa’s agricultural landscape,” Jo-Madugu said, in a statement released Thursday by Mrs. Funmi Imuetinyan, Director of Information and Public Relations.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to agricultural transformation through sustainable irrigation, improved water governance, and inclusive partnerships. He urged participants to return home with renewed determination to foster innovation, cooperation, and equitable access to water resources.
The Minister also acknowledged the robust participation of delegates from across the continent and reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to champion initiatives that support sustainable agriculture and regional development.
In her closing remarks, Engr. Oyeronke Oluniyi, Director of Irrigation and Drainage at the Ministry and Chairperson of the Nigerian National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (NINCID), emphasized the critical roles of youth and women in advancing irrigated agriculture.
“The level of participation and innovation from young professionals was inspiring. They are no longer just observers—they are prepared to lead,” Oluniyi said.
She highlighted the successful youth forum held ahead of the main conference, which brought together young professionals from six African countries to exchange ideas and build networks. A field visit to an irrigation site in Nasarawa State gave delegates hands-on insights into the opportunities and challenges in the sector.
Oluniyi also praised a dedicated session on women in irrigation, where female farmers from Jigawa and Zamfara shared powerful stories of transformation, underscoring the potential of women as changemakers when adequately supported.
Dr. Marco Arcieri, President of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), described the conference as a milestone for Africa. He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration to tackle water scarcity and food insecurity.
“This conference will leave a lasting legacy. We must now build on this momentum to meet our shared development goals through greater cooperation,” Arcieri stated.
Engr. Inuwa Kuta Musa, Co-Chair of the ARCID 2025 Task Team and representative of the Chairman of the African Regional Working Group, echoed the urgency of scaling up action in the face of climate change and rising food demand. He stressed the importance of sustainable, year-round food production powered by effective irrigation.
Former Managing Director of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Engr. Razaq Jimoh, also stressed that year-round farming is crucial to breaking the cycle of poverty.
“We cannot end poverty by farming only four months a year. Year-round food production is the only path forward—and that depends on robust irrigation systems,” Jimoh said.
READ ALSO: Nigeria-China Currency Swap: CBN Highlights Gains as Stakeholders Warn of Long-Term Risks
IPMAN Enugu launches estate project to tackle housing shortage, boost investment
The conference closed with a collective resolution to invest in irrigation infrastructure, empower youth and women, and deepen regional collaboration to enhance agricultural resilience and ensure water security.
The closing ceremony also featured the presentation of awards to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the water and irrigation sector across Africa.
