From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Federal Government has called on state governments and investors to increase direct investments in irrigation infrastructure development across the country to boost food production to feed the Nation and ensure economic growth and job creation
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation Engr Joseph Terlumun Utsev while speaking with newsmen during the commissioning of the Rafin Yashi Dam and irrigation scheme in Minna, Niger State, as part of his familiarisation tour of the Upper Niger River Basin Development Authority.
The Minister urged other River Basin Development Authorities in the country to emulate the Upper Niger River Basin Development Authority in the promotion of Agro-and- Eco Tourism potentials of their Dams to boost the socio-economic activities in the country and enhance the partial commercialisation initiative of the Federal Government.
He reiterated the commitment of this administration to the on going partial commercialisation of Dams and other key projects of the River Basin Development Authorities across the country and urged States and private investors to synergise with the River Basin Authorities to utilize their full potentials.
He added that the Ministry will provide the bulk water and expertise that will ensure that they meet the targets for local food consumption and export.
According to him “we have the Dams, the water and the expertise, we encourage State governments and investors to collaborate with us to meet the targets of expanding irrigation development, food production and harness the economic potentials of the River Basins.”
Engr. Utsev reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government to alleviate the sufferings of Nigerians, revive the economy, boost food production and stressed that once the mandate on food production has been achieved, job creation and security will be improved while better life will be assured for all Nigerians.
Speaking during the commissioning, the Managing Director of Upper Niger River Basin Authority, Prof. Abdulkarim Ali disclosed that the Rafin Yashi Dam is a unique concept with high capacity dual Concrete Reservoirs that provides water for both Rafin Yashi irrigation scheme and the Songhai integrated farm.