The multi-billion naira Watari Irrigation Scheme, set for completion by year-end, is poised to enhance Nigeria’s food production capacity and ensure year-round farming.
Project Manager Muhammad Tijjani Adamu Kwa, who conducted a media tour of the scheme at the start of the week, revealed that the initiative will engage no fewer than 250,000 farmers across its 12 sectors, covering a total of 2,417 hectares of farmland.
Adamu Kwa explained that the scheme features two strategic reservoirs, functional canals, and road networks.
He noted that it is a collaborative project involving the Kano State Government, the Agricultural Transformation Agenda Project, and the Islamic Development Bank.
“Neighbouring states to Kano will also benefit from this large-scale agricultural intervention, which will commence three-season farming by January next year,” Adamu Kwa stated.
The project, initially valued at N1.7 billion, has undergone an upward review to N3.14 billion for the rehabilitation of 1,917 hectares. Additionally, the Kano State Government is funding a 500-hectare expansion at a cost of N4.5 billion.
Highlighting the scheme’s infrastructure, Adamu Kwa disclosed that one of the reservoirs boasts a 10,000,000-cubic-litre water storage capacity, while canals and access roads spanning several stretches have been completed.
He emphasized that farmland under the scheme is being allotted to farmers free of charge. “The farmers are the original owners of the land, and no compensation was required,” he added.
Adamu Kwa expressed optimism about the project’s impact, stating, “Kano is set to play a key role in promoting food security. Barring any last-minute changes, the success story will begin by year-end.”
The Watari Irrigation Scheme stands as a major step toward boosting food security and empowering farmers in Kano and beyond.