FG prioritises irrigation to ensure food security

The Federal Government says it is ramping up support for farmers across Nigeria with a focus on irrigation and climate resilience to boost food security.

At the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series held in Abuja, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev announced that 11 new projects—ranging from dams to irrigation and water supply systems—would be commissioned this year across Benue, Jigawa, and Yobe states.

Utsev said the Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria project, implemented in partnership with 20 states, aims to modernise water infrastructure and develop a national hydropower masterplan.

The project includes collaboration with states such as Adamawa, Borno, Delta, Kano, Nasarawa, Sokoto, and Zamfara.

The ministry’s River Basin Development Authorities have supported over 154,000 hectares of irrigated land, provided tractors and harvesters, and leased 4,400 hectares to commercial farmers to expand production.

“Additionally, we’re investing in human capital. Over 230 postgraduate students have graduated from the National Water Resources Institute, and 1,300 youths have received technical training in water resource fields,” Utsev said.

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He also highlighted the government’s proactive flood response measures. The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency has identified over 1,200 flood-prone communities and launched the Nigerian National Flood Insurance Programme in April to protect vulnerable households and farmers.

To improve sustainability and attract private investment, the RBDAs are being partially commercialised, with efforts underway to reclaim encroached farmlands.

Information Minister Mohammed Idris also addressed the session, noting that inflation fell from 2.18% in March to 2.06% in April, driven by falling food prices and targeted government interventions.

He urged the media to amplify positive developments as the government works to stabilise the economy through infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare investments.

The session was attended by other key ministers, including those of Culture and Creative Economy, and Works.

NAN