The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) and the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority have formed a partnership to boost agriculture in Nigeria. This strategic collaboration aims to expand irrigation systems and support President Bola Tinubu’s food security agenda.
Enhancing Agricultural Productivity through Irrigation
During a high-level meeting, Hon. Olufemi Adekanmbi, the Managing Director and CEO of the Benin-Owena River Basin Authority, met with senior managers from both agencies. They agreed to align resources and expertise to enhance agricultural productivity. The partnership focuses on utilizing the basin’s vast water resources for all-year farming.
This initiative will upgrade existing irrigation schemes and small dams. It will also create new water channels to facilitate multiple crop plantings each year. Improved water access will ensure steady food supplies and increase incomes for local farmers. Adekanmbi described the initiative as a game changer, providing essential infrastructure for farming success.
NALDA’s leadership, under Engr. Cornelius Adebayo, emphasized the agency’s role in modernizing agriculture in rural areas. Their efforts include deploying mechanized tools, supplying quality seeds, and offering technical support. These measures aim to help farmers adopt more efficient production methods. The partnership will also promote cluster farming, which allows farmers to share resources and access markets more easily.
Empowering Youth and Ensuring Food Security
Youth empowerment is a vital aspect of this program. NALDA will spearhead training initiatives to equip young Nigerians with farming skills and entrepreneurial knowledge. These agricultural hubs aim to prepare the next generation of agribusiness leaders. To reduce post-harvest losses, the program will establish storage and processing centers. This will keep produce fresh and market-ready, ultimately benefiting local economies.
State and local governments have pledged their support for this initiative. They will ease land access, simplify regulations, and align their agricultural plans with the partnership’s goals. This cooperation will enhance delivery and ensure that rural communities receive direct benefits.
To ensure accountability, a joint steering committee will monitor progress and provide regular updates. Officials believe this approach will increase public trust and attract private sector investment. The rollout of the initiative begins immediately, with initial steps that include repairing key canals and distributing essential farming inputs. Early outcomes will serve as proof of concept and could draw more investment for expansion.
By combining NALDA’s experience in land development with the River Basin Authority’s control of water resources, this partnership offers a viable model for improving food production in Nigeria. If successful, it will reduce food imports, create jobs, and position the basin as a leading center for agricultural growth and innovation.
In conclusion, the partnership between NALDA and the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority is a significant step toward boosting agriculture in Nigeria. Through enhanced irrigation and a focus on youth empowerment, this initiative aims to transform the agricultural landscape, ensuring food security for the nation. As they move forward, the collaboration promises to deliver sustainable benefits for rural communities and the broader economy.
