Ogun plans partnership on power, irrigation for food security 

The Ogun State Government has expressed interest in partnering with the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority on sustainable power and irrigation alongside other sustainable agricultural projects.

The Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor on Agriculture, Dr Angel Adelaja-Kuye, according to a statement on Sunday, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the MD/CEO, O-ORBDA, Dr Adedeji Ashiru.

Adelaja-Kuye, during the visit, noted, “In line with the state government’s ISEYA Agenda championed by Governor Dapo Abiodun, the government seeks to partner with O-ORBDA to meet the agency’s goals and objectives in the area of food production.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria currently offers a multitude of opportunities aimed at enhancing food security.

“Hence, we also believe that partnership with O-ORBDA could significantly amplify our impact on food security.”

She added that the visit to the agency was to specifically discuss the opportunities in Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria project while leveraging on O-ORBDA’s vast expertise in this regard.

Responding, Ashiru welcomed Adelaja-Kuye and thanked the state government for showing interest in irrigation.

He explained that the two components of SPIN include irrigation and hydro-power, adding that the Mokoloki farm project has been designated for the project.

Ashiru urged the state government to key into the Mokoloki project or bring up new land for irrigation purposes.

He disclosed that the latter option would involve a new study and design of an irrigation system and the construction of new facilities recommended by the design.

Ashiru said, “Presently, we have about 4,000 hectares of land available while the rest of the acquired land mass has already been encroached by communities.

“The proposed Sustainable Power and Irrigation in Nigeria (SPIN) project will address water resources management, water security, and energy security challenges in Nigeria through investments in irrigation, dams, storage infrastructure, and hydropower facilities.

“By mobilising water for productive purposes, optimizing the use of existing storage facilities, and enhancing hydropower generation capacity, the project aims to promote sustainable development, efficient water resource utilization, and strengthen integrated water resources management practices.”