Federal government has announced approval for the partial commercialisation of the 12 River Basin Development Authorities across the country.
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof Joesph Terlumun Utsev, disclosed this during his two day familiarisation visit to Anambra Imo River Basin Development Authority in Owerri, Imo State, yesterday, saying the move was to make the different authorities sustainable and commercially viable.
Utsev disclosed that several reform interventions had been introduced by the ministry to revitalise the River Basin Development Authorities. These interventions include the introduction of the songhai integrated farming model and the training of youths in agribusiness, empowerment of graduates and youths as well as jobs and wealth creation.
He said “It may interest you to note that this administration promises to bring fresh perspectives into the flagship projects and programmes of ARBDs in order to expand irrigation development and boost food production in line with the priority areas of President Bola Tinubu.”
“We will explore innovative ways and means of reviving the Lower Anambra Irrigation Project (LAIP) which is the single largest rice irrigation project in the southeast zone with huge potentials for food security, wealth creation, poverty reduction and job creation”, he said.
The minister also called for credible investors in the water sector, adding that it will no longer be business as usual saying projects will be monitored under his watch.
“We will make sure that good performance will be rewarded while there will be consequences for underperformance.
“Therefore, we expect tangible results from our investments in irrigation and agriculture. RBDAs must demonstrate more commitment to increase land cultivation and agricultural productivity in line with Mr. President’s charge”.
On his part, the managing director, AIRBD, Gerald Osuagwu, expressed delight in receiving the minister and declared the resolve of the management and staff to deliver on the mandate given to the authority.
