Borno Gov Unveils Ambitious Irrigation Plan to Boost Farming

Hauwa Ali
In a strategic move to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's national food security initiatives, Borno
State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, announced a groundbreaking irrigation plan for seven pilot
communities.
The chosen sites, including Gajibo and Jafi, are set to spearhead the state's agricultural drive, aiming to
contribute significantly to Tinubu's "Renewed Hope" agenda.
Governor Zulum unveiled these plans during a visit to Mafa on Wednesday, highlighting the initiation of
the Mafa irrigation scheme. This ambitious project seeks to engage local farmers, providing them with
essential agricultural inputs and targeting 10% community involvement in dry season farming.
The governor emphasized a diverse approach, with a particular focus on wheat farming alongside other
valuable crops. The overarching goal is to improve the livelihoods of community members while ensuring
food security remains a top priority.
During the visit to Mafa, Governor Zulum inspected cutting-edge facilities, such as fully solar-powered
deep aquifer boreholes and a substantial earth dam with a capacity of 2.4 million liters. These
infrastructural investments underscore the commitment to sustainable water resources for agricultural
purposes.
In parallel efforts to address immediate needs, Governor Zulum assessed the Mafa water works,
recognizing its pivotal role in combating water scarcity. The mega water works, boasting a combined
400,000-litre capacity surface and overhead tanks, received approval for a reticulation system. This
directive aims to bring relief to residents who have long grappled with the challenge of fetching water from
distant sources.
Borno State is positioning itself at the forefront of agricultural and infrastructural development, with
Governor Zulum's comprehensive initiatives poised to make a tangible impact on food security and
community well-being.