The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has launched a two-day Stakeholders’ Sensitization Workshop on the National Action Plan for Harnessing Water Resources for Food Security and Poverty Alleviation in Nigeria.

The workshop which commenced on Thursday 20 November in Nasarawa State, is focused on developing a comprehensive framework for the implementation of three flagship programs designed to tackle food security challenges and alleviate poverty across the country.

Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, emphasized the critical role of water resources in driving agricultural productivity, food security, and socio-economic development. He highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda, which prioritizes food security and poverty eradication, urging stakeholders to transform these goals into actionable strategies.

The Honourable Minister outlined three flagship programs aimed at leveraging water resources for food security and poverty alleviation. He explained that the River Basin Strategy for Poverty Alleviation (RB-SPA) focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity, fostering inclusive growth, and improving market access in river basin areas.

He further revealed that the Water for Expanded Irrigated Agriculture Programme (WEIRPRO) seeks to expand irrigated agriculture to boost crop yields and support livelihoods. Meanwhile, the Partnership for Expanded Irrigation Programme (PEIRPRO) focuses on utilizing innovative technologies and fostering cross-sector collaboration for sustainable development.

“These programs represent a paradigm shift in water resources management, aiming to optimize the utilization of our river basin systems and unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector,” Prof. Utsev stated.

Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev emphasized the critical role of harnessing water resources for food security in Nigeria, acknowledging the challenges and opportunities in water management.

He highlighted the workshop’s focus on strategies to expand irrigation, boost agricultural productivity, and alleviate poverty through innovative water management solutions.

Permanent Secretary Richard Pheelangwah reaffirmed the critical role of water resources in combating hunger, poverty, and water scarcity. He expressed optimism that the workshop would present global best practices and innovative solutions to benefit farmers and promote sustainable development.

Pheelangwah praised the Minister’s leadership and acknowledged stakeholders’ contributions to advancing Nigeria’s water sector.

Engr. Christy Oduh, FNSE, Director of River Basin Operations and Inspectorate, expressed her appreciation to the Honourable Minister, the Permanent Secretary, and participants for their commitment to safe water and sanitation.

She stressed that collaboration and dedication are essential for advancing water resources development and achieving sustainable goals in the sector.

The workshop featured presentations by water resources experts, including Engr. Benson Ajisegiri and Engr. Elijah Aderibigbe, on irrigation expansion, water resource management, and revitalizing the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector. The lead paper, Harnessing Water Resources for Food Security in Nigeria, was delivered by Mr. A.J. Ochigbo, a retired Director of River Basin Operations and Inspectorate, Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation