……Calls for Innovative Solutions to Overcome Sectoral Challenges
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the agricultural sector through targeted interventions to scale up irrigation and drainage infrastructure across the country.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, made this known during the National Workshop and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (NINCID) held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, in Lafia, Nasarawa State. The event was themed “Sustainable Irrigation and Drainage System Management for Food Security in Nigeria.”
Represented by the Director of Legal Services, Barr. Mrs. Yvonne Odu-Thomas, the Minister highlighted the Federal Government’s National Irrigation Development Program as a key initiative to empower smallholder farmers, enhance agricultural productivity, and optimize water resource utilization.
While acknowledging progress in irrigation and drainage development, the Minister pointed out persistent challenges in the sector, despite concerted efforts from government and private stakeholders.
He emphasized that functional irrigation and drainage systems are essential to addressing these challenges and achieving food security in Nigeria.
The Minister called for the adoption of sustainable practices, including the use of modern technologies such as precision irrigation, satellite monitoring, and automation, to improve water-use efficiency.
He also underscored the need to invest in capacity building for farmers, engineers, and water management professionals to reduce reliance on erratic rainfall, boost agricultural yields, and strengthen food security nationwide.
He urged stakeholders at the event to identify and implement innovative solutions to tackle the pressing challenges in the irrigation and drainage sub-sector.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, represented by the Director of Irrigation and Drainage, Engr. Mrs. Esther Oyeronke Oluniyi, highlighted agriculture’s critical role in driving economic growth and providing employment for a significant portion of Nigeria’s rural population.
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He noted that the workshop is timely, given recurring challenges in the water sector, and reiterated the government’s commitment to improving irrigation and drainage systems through collaborative efforts.
Engr. Mrs. Oluniyi, represented by Deputy Director Mrs. Florence Oyakhirome, described the workshop as an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on achievements and identify key focus areas for future interventions.
The workshop was officially declared open by the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources and Rural Development, Hon. Abubakar O. Akum.
Running until Friday, December 13, 2024, the workshop has attracted stakeholders from across the country, including professional bodies, water experts, and members of academia, to address critical issues in irrigation and drainage infrastructure development.
