The Federal Government has intensified efforts to tackle flooding and improve food production with the flag-off of the Bela Dam and the launch of a pilot drip irrigation scheme in Bichi Local Government Area of Kano State.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, performed the foundation-laying ceremony for the multipurpose Bela Dam, which has a storage capacity of 775,000 cubic metres.
He said the project is designed to control perennial flooding while supporting irrigation, domestic water supply, fisheries and livestock production.
According to the Minister, the dam and the newly launched Kaukau drip irrigation scheme will enhance dry-season farming, improve livelihoods and strengthen climate resilience in the area.
He urged residents to protect the facilities to ensure long-term benefits.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of the Hadejia Jama’are River Basin Development Authority, Mr. Suleiman Yusuf Bichi, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister for prioritising food sufficiency and agricultural development.
Community leaders, farmers, women and youths attended the ceremony, describing the projects as timely interventions to boost agricultural productivity in the state.
