Minister of State for Water Resources and Sanitation, Bello Goronyo, announced a collaborative effort between the Federal Government and EGTA Investment Ltd. to enhance food production in Nigeria and boost irrigated agriculture and dam facilities nationwide.
During a meeting in Abuja, Goronyo received the outgoing and incoming Egyptian Defence Attachés, Staff Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Ibrahim and Staff Col. Muhammad Ibrahim, respectively. He also met with Dr. Bashir Ibrahim, Group Managing Director of EGTA Investment Ltd., and other officials.
The minister emphasised that this collaboration will support President Bola Tinubu’s food security agenda by improving irrigation and dam infrastructure. He highlighted the potential for job creation, economic growth, and increased food production within the irrigated value chain.
Goronyo advised that the memorandum of understanding should be reviewed by legal authorities to ensure land suitability and avoid any obstacles that might hinder progress.
Dr. Bashir Ibrahim, EGTA Investment Ltd.’s Group Managing Director, stressed the importance of using simple and cost-effective irrigation techniques to empower smallholder farmers.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Oyeronke Oluniyi, Director of Irrigation and Drainage, emphasised the need for tailored irrigation methods, considering operational costs and farmer training for sustainable outcomes. She highlighted the crucial roles of Water Users Associations and the TRIMING Project in enhancing irrigation practices.
Mr. Ali Dallah, Director of Dams and Reservoirs, called for support for the partnership, noting that national dam infrastructure will play a vital role in supporting greenfield projects, irrigation schemes, and development across the country.
