By Abdullahi Lukman
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, has called for increased investment in groundwater-based irrigation farming around Lake Chad to enhance food security and stimulate economic growth in the state and the North-East region.
He made the appeal during a courtesy visit to him by the newly-appointed Board of the Chad Basin Development Authority (CBDA), led by its Chairman, Professor Abdu Dauda Biu, at the Government House in Maiduguri.
Governor Zulum highlighted the agricultural potential of the region, particularly along the shores of Lake Chad in areas such as Kirenowa, Marte, Gamborun Ngala, and Baga, which have abundant groundwater and fertile land suitable for irrigation.
He stressed the importance of tapping into groundwater resources, stating, “We must not rely solely on surface water,” and shared the results of a recent fact-finding mission to Gamborun Ngala, which confirmed the availability of substantial groundwater.
The Governor also outlined ongoing irrigation projects, including a N2 billion investment to cultivate 1,000 hectares in Baga using solar-powered irrigation.
Additional funding of N1.5 billion has been allocated for similar projects in Gamborun Ngala and Marte, which are nearing completion.
Zulum explained that the state is also working to revive the South Chad Irrigation Scheme, with efforts underway to cultivate 200,000 hectares at both the Gamboru Pump House and Gamboru Ladari using solar-powered systems.
Further initiatives include the drilling of 3,000 tube wells in Damasak, Mobbar Local Government Area, which has allowed farmers to cultivate a kilometer-long stretch of land previously unfamiliar with groundwater irrigation.
Governor Zulum emphasized his commitment to working closely with the CBDA to expand farming in areas like Ngala, Damasak, and New Marte, providing livelihoods for returnees and ensuring food security.
He also noted that the state is working on reviving the Chad Basin Kirenowa pumping station and is in discussions to establish a military battalion in the area to improve security around the facility.
In its remarks, the CBDA shared that the new board, formed in December 2024, had visited key facilities under their supervision, including the Alau Dam.
It commended the Governor Zulum for his contributions to the dam’s management and expressed their commitment to collaborating with the state on irrigation, livestock, and fishing projects.
It also sought the governor’s support to ensure the timely completion of the Alau Dam rehabilitation, which was recently approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.