The 12 River Basin Development Authorities (RBDAs) have pledged to intensify efforts to expand irrigation systems and boost food production.
The commitment was made during a press conference yesterday at the close of a two-day strategic retreat which brought together board members and management of the River Basin authorities in Abuja.
Delivering the address on behalf of the Joint Appointees Forum, the managing director and CEO of the Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority, Alhaji Abubakar Malam, commended the retreat for deepening understanding of the RBDA mandate in the context of the national food security emergency.
“The retreat provided a valuable platform to reassess our core responsibilities and realign with the federal government’s vision for food sufficiency. We wish to assure His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that all 12 River Basins are fully committed to actualising this national agenda,” he stated.
The boards plan to open more arable land for cultivation, create agribusiness opportunities, especially for youth and women, revamp irrigation systems, and attract private investment into the agricultural value chain.
While acknowledging challenges such as outdated infrastructure, climate change, and regional insecurity, Malam noted that the RBDAs are prepared to embrace modern technologies and innovative approaches to transform agricultural productivity across the country.
“In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, especially Zero Hunger, Clean Water, and Climate Action, we are determined to expand irrigated farmland, equip farmers with modern tools and techniques, and reduce post-harvest losses,” he said.
