2 months ago
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Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev
The Federal Government, on Wednesday, reiterated its commitment to complete the age-long Middle Ogun Irrigation Project in the Iseyin Local Government Area of Oyo State to enhance agricultural productivity and food security in Nigeria.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsve, disclosed this during an assessment tour of the facilities at the project site in Iseyin town.
He said the project would boost food production, create jobs, and strengthen the nation’s economy.
Utsve announced a change from diesel-powered irrigation systems to a combination of solar energy and the national grid.
The minister said, “We have procured the equipment for installation to the national grid, and as of now, we are almost at 95% completion for the grid connection, while the solarization is nearing 80% completion.2
“The completion of the Middle Ogun Irrigation Project is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. Approximately 8,000 women and youth will benefit from direct jobs, with millions more potentially created indirectly.
“By doing this, we can create jobs and enhance the economy of this country, ensuring maximum food production to serve Nigerians.”
When asked about the timeline for the completion, Utsve assured that by the end of 2024, the installation of solar panels would be complete, followed by the rehabilitation of irrigation facilities.
He projected that within two to three years, all 12,000 hectares of land envisioned for agricultural purposes would be fully operational.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Farmers Association in the zone, Ademola Dauda, highlighted the previous dysfunctionality of the irrigation scheme and expressed hope that the current administration’s efforts will enable year-round farming and significantly boost local food production.
