The Federal Government has announced its intention to collaborate with the Borno State Government to rejuvenate irrigation schemes, aiming to elevate agricultural output and fortify food security. According to a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, conveyed this message during a meeting with Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno. Utsev emphasized that the partnership aims to optimize irrigation infrastructure’s capacity to stimulate agricultural progress, thereby safeguarding food security across the nation.
Utsev reiterated the commitment of the federal government to assist states in bolstering food production through irrigation and river basin projects, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Food Security Agenda.
Highlighting the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing water and sanitation needs across the nation, Utsev reassured of his ministry’s readiness to support Borno State in advancing agriculture through irrigation systems and water schemes. Stressing the significance of implementing federal government intervention programs in the state, he urged active participation from state governments for the collective well-being of Nigerians.
Utsev revealed ongoing endeavors by the federal government and development partners in sustainable water and sanitation initiatives, including the expedited implementation of dam and irrigation projects at the grassroots level. He also unveiled plans for a comprehensive assessment of water and sanitation conditions in all 36 states, aiming to identify areas requiring intervention and potential partnerships.
Furthermore, the minister advocated for collaboration in the Open Defecation Free Nigeria Campaign to enhance sanitation nationwide.
The statement further cited Zulum expressing that the purpose of the visit was to strengthen collaboration with the ministry, aiming to harness the agricultural potential of the state and rejuvenate its irrigation capacities. He called on the federal government to accelerate partnerships for irrigation projects, utilizing the extensive arable lands within the state.
Zulum encouraged the ministry to delve into research on replenishing the diminishing Lake Chad through internal water reservoirs, aligning with the food security agenda.
He guaranteed the minister a fruitful collaborative effort aimed at improving food production and livelihoods.
The gathering was attended by the Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr. Bello Muhammad Goronyo, along with officials from both the ministry and the Borno State Government. (NAN).
