By Nneka Nwogwugwu
The Kano State Government has released on Friday, water from the Watari dam to allow for continuation of irrigation activities within Bagwai, Bichi local government areas and environs.
Amin Yassar, Communication Specialist, Kano State Agro Pastoral Development Project (KSADP) made this known in a statement on Friday in Kano.
The KSADP said the release of the water was reactivated after completion of about 40 per cent of the desilt, clearance and rehabilitation of canals at the Watari dam.
The project, the state government said was awarded to Messrs Hajaig Nigeria Limited for N315 million.
He said the project was designed to enhance access to water resources to enable farmers in Bagwai and Bichi LGAs engage in rain fed and dry season activities.
The KSADP said there are 2,600 hectares of land for cultivation of rice, wheat, legumes and vegetables.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the KSADP Project Manager, Ibrahim Garba-Muhamnad, also said that it was a tough decision to stop the release of water to the farms in view of the multitude of farmers whose livelihoods depend on the dam.
“Community participation is key to success of government policies and projects like this one. I am happy that you are involved in the work from what we have seen during our visits in the past,” he said.
