Kano Deputy Governor Launches Irrigation Suitability Mapping Tool

The deputy governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam, has launched the Irrigation Suitability Mapping Tool Research Project at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH), Wudil.

While delivering an address at the event on Tuesday, the deputy governor acknowledged agriculture as Kano’s economic backbone. He noted the state’s leadership in irrigation farming, boasting the country’s largest irrigation fields, dams, and schemes. He described the Irrigation Suitability Mapping Tool as a critical innovation to help the government, financial institutions, and input suppliers make informed investment decisions.

“While this tool does not replace traditional agricultural extension services, it will significantly enhance farmers’ access to valuable business information and decision-making support,” he stated. He assured the audience of the government‘s commitment to the project’s success, urging donor agencies to support future phases to benefit Kano’s farmers.

He thanked the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, IFPRI, and ADUSTECH for their support in strengthening irrigation farming in Kano State.

In his opening remarks, ADUSTECH Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Musa Tukur Yakasai, welcomed guests and emphasised the university’s dedication to scientific research and technological advancement. He recounted the institution’s evolution from its founding in 2001 as Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST) to its renaming in honour of Alhaji Aliko Dangote, reflecting its strengthened commitment to innovation and development.
Prof. Yakasai highlighted the university’s accreditation of 41 out of 45 academic programs, its 57 postgraduate research programs, and its extensive network of national and international collaborations.

“The Irrigation Suitability Mapping Tool Research Project is a testament to our mission of solving real-world challenges through innovative research. This initiative will directly benefit communities by enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to the project‘s researchers, partners, and stakeholders, emphasising their collective role in advancing the university’s vision.

The Deputy Governor formally launched the Irrigation Suitability Mapping Tool Project, hoping it would benefit the government, financial institutions, input suppliers, and irrigation farmers in Kano State and beyond.

The event, attended by government officials, researchers, donor representatives, and key stakeholders, marks a significant step in Kano’s efforts to integrate science, technology, and agriculture for sustainable development.