VMT News | 2 March 2025
Nigeria takes a leap towards food security with the “IRRIGATE NIGERIA” Project launched by NASENI
The federal government has taken a significant step towards achieving national food security with the launch of the “Irrigate Nigeria” project, a one-million-hectare year-round irrigation scheme. The project, spearheaded by the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and funded by the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund, was inaugurated in Gamawa local government area of Bauchi State.
The ambitious scheme aims to support climate-resilient agriculture, a crucial element in achieving food security and reducing food prices. NASENI Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Khalil Halilu, emphasized that the project fulfills President Bola Tinubu’s campaign promise for a more robust agricultural sector.
“Irrigate Nigeria” promises to transform agricultural practices by:
* **Boosting productivity:** The project will empower farmers with the tools and resources to increase both the quality and quantity of their harvests.
* **Enhancing rural economies:** The scheme will bolster rural economies by providing year-round farming opportunities and generating income streams for local communities.
* **Empowering the private sector:** “Irrigate Nigeria” will engage the private sector through farmers’ clusters at the grassroots, fostering economic growth and development.
* **Attracting investment:** The project will attract foreign investment and increase foreign exchange earnings through the export of agricultural produce.
In Gamawa, the project will initially support Tiamin Rice in cultivating approximately 30,000 hectares of land. The success of this pilot phase is expected to pave the way for further expansion across the country.
The project has received widespread support from various stakeholders. The Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Adamu, hailed the scheme as a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to improving the economic well-being of farmers. He also highlighted the project’s potential for promoting climate-smart agriculture practices for sustainable livelihoods.
Governor Bala Mohammed, who also commended President Tinubu’s initiative, emphasized the positive impact of “Irrigate Nigeria” across the entire agriculture value chain. He pledged his unwavering commitment to supporting federal government policies that benefit the people and further disclosed an approval for 50,000 hectares of land in Toro local government for the project’s expansion.
With traditional rulers and local communities on board, “Irrigate Nigeria” has the potential to revolutionize agriculture in Nigeria, paving the way for a more secure and prosperous future for all.