₦airaland Forum

New multi-stakeholder initiative aims to unlock smallholder irrigation potential as climate shocks worsen

ABUJA, Nigeria – IWMI has launched a major new initiative to put Nigeria farmer-led irrigation at the center of efforts to boost food security, as more than 25 million people face hunger amid worsening climate shocks. The platform, unveiled on September 10, brings together government agencies, the Bank of Agriculture, and development partners to expand irrigation access, scale solar-powered solutions, and support smallholder farmers who produce most of the nation’s food.

Despite Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential, farmer-led irrigation development (FLID) has struggled to expand. Poor coordination between sectors, inconsistent policies, duplication of efforts, and limited access to credit have slowed adoption of available technologies, leaving smallholder farmers exposed to both droughts and floods.

“The potential for farmer-led irrigation in Nigeria and across sub-Saharan Africa is significant,” said Dr. Olufunke Cofie, IWMI’s Africa Director for Research Impact. “Stakeholders must collaborate to realize this potential. FLID is central to African agrifood systems transformation and crucial for resilience building.”

Government representatives echoed the need for partnership. Engr. Esther Oluniyi, Director of Irrigation and Drainage at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources & Sanitation, said: “Strong partnerships are key to the transformation of Nigeria’s irrigation sector. We are ready to collaborate with … —> https://justafricanews.com/nigeria-farmer-led-irrigation-platform/