Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Programme Phase-One, (ATASP-1) has applauded the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security for the rehabilitation of moribund irrigational facilities for dry season farming in Anambra and Enugu States.
The Zonal Programme Coordinator of ATASP-1 Adani-Omor Zone, Dr. Romanus Egba, also commended governments of Enugu and Anambra states, profiled farmers in both states and other value chain actors for efforts leading to success of ATASP-1 in South-East.
Egba said this in a message to felicitate with farmers across Anambra and Enugu states, Federal Government and AfDB on the commemoration of the 2024 edition of World Food Day with the theme: “Water is Life, Water is Food: Leave No One Behind.”
He noted that as people and governments reflect on the significance of this global event, all should be reminded that “food security is not only about increasing production but ensuring equitable access to water and resources.”
According to him, for our farmers, access to water remains a crucial factor in enhancing productivity and improving livelihoods.
“This is why under ATASP-1, Federal Government through the AfDB has invested billions of dollars into rehabilitation of Ada Rice Irrigation Project and the Lower Anambra Irrigation Project (LAIP) to support dry season farming.
“ATASP-1 is happy to announce that the Concrete Lining of 22.45 45km Main Canal, First Secondary Canal and Rehabilitation of Various Hydraulic Structures of Ada Rice Irrigation System at Adani, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State is completed.
“All is now set for commencement of dry season rice farming in the area.
“Similar breakthrough is expected for the Concrete Lining of 40.1km West Main Canal, Headrace Canal, East Main Canal and Rehabilitation of Various Hydraulic Structures at the Lower Anambra Irrigation Project (LAIP), Omor in Ayamelum LGA, Anambra State.
“Already, the rehabilitation of LAIP Pumping Station at Ifite-Ogwari station, Ayamelum Local Government Area in Anambra State has reached advance stage with final testing being awaited,” he said.
The zonal programme coordinator said that when these projects come on stream, rice farmers in Adani and Omor axis would begin to engage in extensive dry season farming, food productivity would triple as well as income generation with attendant improved lifestyle.
Egba noted that ATASP-1 would intensify its efforts to prepare farmers for delivery of sustainable success stories before the programme exits.
“We must reiterate that government initiatives, along with the support of international partners and stakeholders, must continue to focus on providing adequate irrigation systems, improving infrastructure, and promoting water conservation techniques to secure the future of Nigerian agriculture.
“As we commemorate World Food Day, we implore our states and local governments plus organized private sector to join our collective commitment to supporting our farmers.
“The support could be through policies, investments, and innovations that enhance productivity, conserve natural resources, and create an environment where every Nigerian farmer can thrive.
“The success of Nigerian agriculture is not only key to our national food security but to our broader economic and social development,” he said.
The zonal programme coordinator appreciated farmers for their dedication, hard work and resilience in ensuring that Nigeria remains a nation of abundance and opportunity.
“As we move forward, let us continue to prioritise the well-being of our farmers, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of a more sustainable and food-secure future,” he added.
The World Food Day, celebrated yearly on Oct. 16, is a day set side to discuss the issue of hunger and malnutrition as well as food production.
