FG Hands Over Consultancy for Strengthening Water Users Associations in Gari Irrigation Project
The Federal Government has handed over consultancy services for the establishment and strengthening of Water Users Associations (WUAs) within the Gari Irrigation Project to OMADAC Engineering Limited, signalling a new phase aimed at improving irrigation management and boosting food production in Kano and Jigawa States.
The handover ceremony, held at the Gari Irrigation Project site in Jigawa State, was supervised by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in collaboration with the Hadejia–Jama’are River Basin Development Authority (HJRBDA).
Speaking during the event, the Director of Irrigation and Drainage in the Ministry, Engr. (Mrs.) Esther Oyeronke Oluniyi, represented by Engr. Victor Ojiako said the initiative would strengthen community participation, promote efficient water allocation, and enhance agricultural productivity.
She noted that the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring sustainable irrigation systems that support food security and economic resilience.
“This project is designed to transform agricultural livelihoods and promote community-driven management of water resources. It is a significant step toward enhancing irrigation efficiency and securing farmers’ livelihoods,” she said.
Project Coordinator, Mrs. Florence Oyakhirome, described the handover as a milestone in achieving sustainability in agricultural development, adding that the active involvement of local farmers would ensure the long-term success of the project. She also emphasized the need for women and youth inclusion, noting that they contribute significantly to agricultural labour and production.
“Communities must take ownership for projects to be sustainable. Women and young people play a major role in agriculture, and their representation in Water Users Association leadership is critical,” she said.
In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Managing Director of HJRBDA, Mr. Abba Rasheed, Deputy Director of Agricultural Services encouraged farmers to ensure proper use and maintenance of irrigation facilities for long-term benefits.
Also speaking, the National Desk Officer for WUAs, Engr. Ibe Uzoechi, said strengthening the associations would empower farmers to take responsibility for the operation and maintenance of irrigation systems, which he described as essential to improving crop yields and irrigation efficiency.
President of the Water Users Association at the Gari Irrigation Scheme, Alhaji Haruna Isyaku, expressed optimism that the renewed support would help farmers increase production and improve their livelihoods. He assured stakeholders that the association would ensure proper management and sustainability of the scheme.
The Gari Irrigation Project is one of Nigeria’s key irrigation initiatives aimed at expanding irrigable land and improving efficient water use for year-round farming. With the engagement of OMADAC Engineering Limited, the project now moves into a phase focused on technical strengthening and community-based management.
The event concluded with the official presentation of project documents to OMADAC Engineering Limited by representatives of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
