By Abbas Nazil
The Federal Government has reiterated its dedication to enhancing Nigeria’s agricultural sector through expanded irrigation and drainage systems.
The Honorable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, expressed the dedication during the National Workshop and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria National Committee on Irrigation and Drainage (NINCID) in Lafia, Nasarawa State, on Tuesday, 10th December 2024.
Themed “Sustainable Irrigation and Drainage System Management for Food Security in Nigeria,” the event brought together stakeholders, experts, and policymakers to address critical challenges facing water resource management and agricultural productivity.
Represented by Barr. Mrs. Yvonne Odu-Thomas, Director of Legal Services at the Ministry, Prof. Utsev underscored the federal government’s focus on the National Irrigation Development Program.
This initiative aims to empower smallholder farmers, increase agricultural production, and optimize water resource utilization.
Prof. Utsev acknowledged significant strides in irrigation and drainage development, but noted ongoing challenges that hinder the sector’s full potential.
He emphasized the need for functional systems to mitigate these issues, urging stakeholders to embrace sustainable practices and modern technologies, such as precision irrigation, satellite monitoring, and automation.
These innovations, he explained, could significantly enhance water-use efficiency and improve agricultural yields, reducing reliance on erratic rainfall while bolstering food security nationwide.
The minister called for capacity-building efforts targeting farmers, engineers, and water management specialists to ensure that local expertise drives sustainable irrigation practices.
He further challenged participants to propose innovative solutions to overcome obstacles in the irrigation and drainage sub-sector, emphasizing the critical role of collaboration among government, private stakeholders, and professional bodies.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, Engr. Mrs. Esther Oyeronke Oluniyi, Director of Irrigation and Drainage, echoed the importance of agriculture in Nigeria’s economy.
She stated that agriculture employs a large portion of the rural population and is pivotal for economic growth.
Engr. Oluniyi, represented by Mrs. Florence Oyakhirome, Deputy Director in the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, described the workshop as a vital platform for stakeholders to evaluate past achievements and identify priorities for future efforts.
The event’s significance was further underscored by the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, who, through the Commissioner for Water Resources and Rural Development, Abubakar O. Akum, formally declared the workshop open.
The Governor’s remarks emphasized the necessity of robust irrigation and drainage systems for sustainable agricultural growth, particularly in addressing recurring challenges in water resource management.
The workshop, running until Friday, 13th December 2024, serves as a convergence point for diverse stakeholders, including professional bodies, water experts, and academia, to discuss pathways for sustainable irrigation and drainage practices.
Participants are expected to collaborate on actionable strategies to enhance the resilience and efficiency of Nigeria’s agricultural systems, ultimately contributing to improved food security and economic stability.