The Nigerian Government has commissioned the Odo-Ape Dam project in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.
This milestone aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the declaration of a state of emergency on food security across the country.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev who commissioned the Dam project at Odo-Ape said the Dam would help drive economic growth, job creation, and poverty eradication in Kogi State and its environs.
Professor Utsev reiterated the Government’s commitment to water resources development for socio-economic advancement and highlighted the vital role of water in various sectors such as human consumption, agriculture, industry, and sanitation among others.
The Minister stated that “the commissioning of the Odo-Ape Dam underscores the current administration’s commitment to optimising the nation’s water resources and ensuring year-round farming to boost food production.”
He expressed optimism that in addressing the needs of the populace, particularly in providing portable water, sanitation, hygiene, and food security, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation will continue to collaborate with state governments, other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, development partners, donor agencies, as well as communities to drive the Renewed Hope Agenda to success.
Prof Utsev said that “the Ministry has established a robust Monitoring and Evaluation framework to ensure accountability in project initiation, implementation, and management, stressing that the Ministry remains dedicated to sustainable water supply management, Sanitation, and Hygiene to foster a healthy and economically empowered society.”
He maintained that the operationalisation of the Odo Ape Dam marks a crucial step towards poverty alleviation and socio-economic well-being, contributing to food security and economic prosperity of the community and its environs and Kogi State at large.
The Minister expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, as well as Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State and the traditional rulers in Odo-Ape, Kabba and environs for their cooperation.
Special thanks were extended to stakeholders, including the contractor, consultant, and the Management of the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority.
Prof. Utsev announced the donation of a solar-powered irrigation pump to the community and assured training for farmers to optimise the dam’s use.
The project received a commendation from Kogi State Security Adviser, Navy Commander Jerry Omodara Rtd, who represented Governor Usman Ododo, for its potential to enhance food production in Odo-Ape and its environs. He gave an assurance on behalf of the people that the Dam will be used judiciously.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Dr. Adeniyi Saheed Aremu highlighted the Authority’s commitment to implementing water resources development policies aimed at improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
He specifically mentioned the Odo-Ape project, which focuses on expanding irrigation capabilities.
Aremu revealed that the distribution of solar-powered irrigation pumps across Kogi and Kwara States has not only saved farmers money but also enhanced agricultural productivity in the region.
Regarding the newly commissioned Odo-Ape Dam, he emphasized its significant capacity of 3.5 million cubic meters. The dam is set to irrigate 700 hectares of farmland, benefiting over 2,800 farmers. The projected outcomes include the production of 3,000 metric tonnes of grains and vegetables annually, generating half a billion Naira in revenue, and promoting aquaculture development.
Aremu stressed that this initiative will contribute to food security, create employment opportunities, alleviate poverty, and stimulate rural development, particularly in Kogi State.
Other dignitaries present at the commissioning included the Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Royal fathers from Odo-Ape, Kabba and environs, farmers, Water Users Association members, and community leaders.
Dominica Nwabufo
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