Food Security: Zulum Move to Reactivate South Chad Irrigation

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has issued directives for the revival of the South Chad Irrigation Scheme, intending to provide sustainable livelihoods for resettled communities.

The announcement was made in Wulgo, Ngala Local Government Area, with Governor Zulum emphasizing the state’s commitment to expanding irrigation activities along Lake Chad’s shores.

Zulum outlined plans “to resettle new communities and reactivate the South Chad Irrigation Scheme as a strategic response to address food crises in Borno State.” The initiative encompasses communities along Lake Chad, such as Gamboru, Dambore, Wulgo, Marte, and Kirenuwa, aiming to generate employment opportunities and bolster food security in the region.

Highlighting the proactive measures taken by the State Ministry of Agriculture, the governor emphasized the broader strategy to reactivate irrigation schemes across Borno. The envisioned revival is expected to provide sustainable livelihoods for resettled communities, reducing reliance on food aid.

Governor Zulum acknowledged the ‘impracticality of continued food distribution and stressed the importance of seeking medium and long-term solutions to comprehensively tackle food crises in the state. The reactivation of irrigation schemes, including the South Chad Irrigation Scheme, is seen as a pivotal step in achieving this goal.

Accompanied by key officials, including Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Representative Bukar Talba, Assembly Representative Hon Bukar Abatcha, and Ngala Local Government Chairman, Governor Zulum conducted on-site visits to Gamboru, Wulgo, and Dambore irrigation sites.

Similarly the Senator representing Borno Central, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan who accompanied the governor, thank the governor for all the humanitarian, security, and agricultural support he has been rendering for the people of this senatorial district, which he has been doing so throughout the state.

“This is one in Gomborun- Ngala is so dear to me, it’s under my senatorial district.” The issue of grazing reserves, irrigation farming, headers, are all embodied in various laws of this country.”

“In recent, I sponsored a motion on the floor of the Senate calling on the National Assembly and the federal government to revisit and revive the laws of the federal government of Nigeria, which was reviewed last in 2004. 

As part of our constituency projects, we will make sure we support our constituency with agricultural equipment, at least to support what the governor is doing.” Senator Lawan said.

Shakirat Sadiq