The deteriorating state of dams and irrigation infrastructure across Nigeria is posing significant challenges to dry season farming, as uncovered by Our sources investigations. Years of neglect have left many facilities in disrepair, despite the country’s vast irrigation potential and a reported capacity of three million hectares.
Nigeria is home to 408 dams, the highest number in Africa, including 142 large dams, 59 medium-sized, and 207 small ones, according to the Compendium and Digital Map of Dams in Nigeria. Additionally, there are 323 irrigation schemes spread across the six geopolitical zones. Major irrigation projects include the Kano River Irrigation Scheme (KRIS) in Kano State, Bakolori Irrigation Scheme (BIS) in Zamfara State, and Hadejia Valley Irrigation Scheme (HVIS) in Jigawa State, among others.
Neglect and Failures
Despite these resources, many irrigation projects have fallen into neglect. For instance, the multibillion-naira Gurara Irrigation Scheme in Kaduna State, initiated during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, has failed to deliver on its promise. The scheme, designed to benefit 12,000 farmers, is now largely abandoned due to vandalism and theft of infrastructure.
Farmers Turning to Costly Alternatives
In states like Taraba and Bauchi, farmers have resorted to using boreholes, wells, and surface water for irrigation due to the lack of functioning dams and canals. High costs of fuel, fertilizer, and labor further compound their struggles. In Taraba, for example, farmers along the River Benue Valley complain about the absence of maintenance on federal government-built infrastructure, forcing them to rely on costly alternatives like pumping machines.
Similarly, in Bauchi State, the drying up of rivers and wells has led to significant financial losses for farmers, with some migrating to neighboring states in search of better opportunities.
Efforts to Address the Crisis
In contrast, irrigation activities in Kano State are reportedly progressing well. According to the River Basin Development Authority, the dams in the state are operational, and plans are underway to address blockages in water channels.
At the federal level, the government has begun evaluating the integrity of dams nationwide. Following the September 2024 rupture of the Alau Dam in Borno State, which caused severe flooding, President Bola Tinubu ordered integrity tests on all dams to prevent future disasters. The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun, also emphasized the need for increased investment in dam rehabilitation and maintenance.
Experts’ Opinions
Experts argue that effective management of dam resources could significantly enhance all-year-round farming, potentially averting food shortages and improving food security in the country. President Tinubu echoed this sentiment during his Independence Day speech, highlighting the critical need to address fiscal and infrastructural challenges to ensure a sustainable future.
The current state of irrigation infrastructure underscores the urgency for comprehensive reforms to unlock Nigeria’s agricultural potential and support farmers in their efforts to achieve food security.
