FG Unveils Framework To Harness Water Resources For Food Security

The Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has unveiled an initiative to promote food security and poverty alleviation in the country by strategically managing water resources.

Speaking at a two-day Stakeholders’ Sensitisation Workshop in Nasarawa State on Thursday, the minister of water resources and sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, highlighted the government’s commitment to leveraging water resources for sustainable development and economic growth.

The workshop, themed: “National Action Plan for Harnessing Water Resources for Food Security and Poverty Alleviation in Nigeria: Towards Developing a Framework for the Implementation of the Three Flagship Programmes”, brought together key stakeholders from government agencies, civil society, and the private sector to deliberate on the implementation of three flagship programmes aimed at revolutionising agricultural productivity and poverty reduction.

Prof Utsev outlined the three flagship programmes under the ministry’s agenda as “River Basin Strategy for Poverty Alleviation (RB-SPA): This initiative focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity in river basin areas to stimulate economic growth and improve farmers’ access to markets.

“Water for Expanded Irrigated Agriculture Programme (WEIRPRO): Aimed at boosting irrigated agriculture, this programme seeks to unlock the untapped potential of water resources for higher agricultural yields and economic prosperity.

“Partnership for Expanded Irrigation Programme (PEIRPRO): This programme emphasises collaboration across sectors and innovative technologies to expand irrigation and foster sustainable livelihoods.”

He said that the initiatives represent a paradigm shift in the approach of water resource management and agricultural development, explaining that they are designed to optimise the utilisation of the country’s river basin systems, driving economic growth and job creation.

The minister emphasised the significance of aligning the workshop’s objectives with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda, which prioritises food security and poverty eradication.

He stressed the critical link between effective water resource management, agricultural development, and poverty alleviation.

He noted that if harnessed strategically, Nigeria’s abundant water resources hold immense potential for ensuring food security and economic prosperity.

Prof. Utsev called for inclusive and community-driven approaches, encouraging active participation from all stakeholders.