Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has called for the establishment of large-scale irrigation farms as a crucial step toward addressing the worsening food insecurity in the Lake Chad Basin region.
Speaking at the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri, Zulum stressed the urgent need for investment in irrigation agriculture to counter the region’s declining food production, which he attributed to excessive reliance on rainfed farming.
Governor Zulum highlighted the Lake Chad Basin’s vast arable land, arguing that, if properly harnessed, it could significantly boost food production and economic growth.
“We need to invest in irrigation. Irrigated agriculture is the only solution. Unfortunately, our investment in this sector is very low,” he stated.
He pointed out that Borno State alone spans 72,000 square kilometers, with over 70% of it classified as arable land. However, the region’s rapidly increasing population has made traditional farming methods unsustainable.
Zulum called for research into climate-resilient crops and modern irrigation techniques, emphasizing that surface and drip irrigation systems could optimize limited water resources.
“Our food production is declining due to overdependence on rainfall. Through this forum, we must explore ways to establish large-scale irrigation farms that ensure sustainable food production,” he urged.
Beyond crop production, Zulum underscored the Lake Chad Basin’s role as a major cattle-producing region, advocating for irrigation-driven pasture development to enhance beef and milk production.
“We have a low-hanging fruit in irrigation. The shores of Lake Chad provide ample water resources, and where surface water is scarce, tube wells can be drilled.
What we need now is the political will from regional governors, federal and national governments, and international partners to drive this process,” he concluded.