The Federal Government has ramped up efforts to enhance food security by expanding irrigation projects and implementing sustainable water management strategies to counter the growing threats of climate change on Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
Speaking at the 31st National Council on Water Resources and Sanitation (NCWRS) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, announced the completion of several major irrigation projects, along with the launch of new schemes in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo States.
According to the Minister, these initiatives are designed to boost food production and mitigate the impact of climate-induced droughts.
Utsev highlighted the completion of over 40 water supply projects, 44 PEWASH projects, 45 SURWASH projects, and 64 initiatives funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB).
To combat recurrent flooding, he stated that the government has strengthened dam safety assessments and early warning systems through the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
In sanitation, the Minister noted that the Clean Nigeria Campaign has certified 142 Local Government Areas (LGAs) as Open Defecation Free (ODF).
He also announced the establishment of National Water Quality Reference Laboratories in Asaba and Umuahia to enhance water safety monitoring.
Declaring the meeting open, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Bassey Eno, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding irrigation, fisheries, and livestock production under the state’s ARISE agenda.
Chairman of the House Committee on Water Resources, Rt. Hon. Sada Soli, emphasized the need for stronger partnerships and strategic investments in water infrastructure to unlock Nigeria’s full agricultural potential.
Utsev called on state governments and private sector stakeholders to accelerate investments in irrigation, sanitation, and climate resilience, as Nigeria prepares to host the “ICID-6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage” in April 2025.
With these initiatives, the Federal Government aims to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability, enhance food production, and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on the nation’s economy.
