FG Hosts 6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage

The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, CON, officially declared open the 6th African Regional Conference of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ARCID) today in Abuja. He emphasized the urgent need for a strategic shift in water management as a critical step toward addressing food security across the continent.

In his opening address, President Tinubu welcomed participants and underscored the relevance of the conference theme: “Tackling Irrigation Development and Water Management Crisis in Africa.” He described the forum as a timely call to action for African nations to invest in sustainable irrigation practices to enhance food security, improve agricultural productivity, and strengthen economic resilience.

Highlighting Nigeria’s vast irrigation potential—with over 3.1 million hectares of arable land and several major river basins—the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming the sector. He recalled that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, a National Emergency on Food Security was declared, prompting increased investment in irrigation infrastructure, participatory water management, and youth engagement through modern technological tools, including geospatial systems and artificial intelligence.

Also speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, FNSE, FNICE, FNIWE, reiterated the Federal Government’s alignment with ICID’s global vision. He outlined ongoing efforts to improve access to potable water, combat climate change, and upgrade infrastructure within the water and agriculture sectors.

The Minister highlighted the achievements of the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project, which over the past seven years has significantly improved irrigation infrastructure, promoted sustainable agriculture, and empowered rural communities. Major milestones include the completion of the Dadin-Kowa, Bakolori, and Middle Rima Valley projects, the formation of Water Users Associations (WUAs), and the establishment of market linkages for key crops.

Looking ahead, he announced the forthcoming launch of the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project in partnership with the World Bank. SPIN is set to build on TRIMING’s success, expanding irrigation access and maximizing the socio-economic benefits of water resources.

Other achievements mentioned include the development of over 153,000 hectares of irrigable land by the River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs), which are currently undergoing partial commercialization to attract private sector investment.

In her remarks, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, mni, reflected on her tenure as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and her role in transforming irrigation management. She cited a 2022 study tour to Morocco as an inspiration behind Nigeria’s hosting of the conference.

She emphasized water’s central role in Africa’s food security and economic transformation and urged that the conference produce practical policies and investments that directly benefit farmers and local communities.

Mrs. Walson-Jack also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to civil service reforms, good governance, and inter-sectoral collaboration to support sustainable agricultural and water systems. She encouraged delegates to use the platform to share ideas, foster partnerships, and advance Africa’s shared development goals.

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State echoed the call for urgent action, lamenting the shrinking farming seasons due to climate change, which has left many farmers unsure of when to plant.

“Our once-fertile land is turning to dust. Irrigation is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Innovation must not be seen as a privilege of the few. We must empower our women and youth who are on the frontlines of agriculture,” he stressed.

He called on development partners to respond more effectively to Africa’s unique challenges, especially those related to water access and rural farming communities.

President of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), Dr. Marco Arcieri, praised the conference as timely and forward-looking.

“This marks a turning point. We celebrate important ideas and have set goals to tackle the challenges before us. We are committed to supporting the continent as it faces a growing population and climate-induced pressures,” Dr. Arcieri said.

Delivering the welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Mr. Richard P. Pheelangwah, reaffirmed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to advancing integrated water resources management. He encouraged participants to actively engage in the technical sessions, field visits, and networking opportunities designed to enhance collaboration and knowledge-sharing throughout the conference.

Engr. Ibrahim Kuta Musa, representing the African Regional Working Group, emphasized that the issues raised during the conference reflect Africa’s distinct irrigation development challenges. He expressed confidence that the renewed interactions would yield innovative strategies and tangible outcomes.

The conference has drawn regional and international experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from the irrigation and water management sectors across Africa.

The event continues in Abuja through April 17, featuring technical sessions, policy dialogues, and site visits to key irrigation zones across Nigeria.