Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has unveiled a strategic initiative to revive the South Chad Irrigation Scheme, signaling a significant step towards providing sustainable livelihoods for resettled communities.
The announcement was made on Monday during the governor’s visit to Wulgo, a border community in the Ngala Local Government Area.
Expressing the commitment of the Borno State Government, Governor Zulum outlined the plan to open up and expand irrigation activities along the shores of Lake Chad. The primary goal is to resettle new communities and reactivate the South Chad Irrigation Scheme, with a specific focus on addressing food crises within the state.
“The South Chad Irrigation Scheme, encompassing communities such as Gamboru, Dambore, Wulgo, Marte, and Kirenuwa, will not only create employment opportunities but also significantly enhance food security in the region,” emphasized Governor Zulum.
Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Governor Zulum revealed that the State Ministry of Agriculture has devised a comprehensive strategy for the reactivation of various irrigation schemes across Borno State. The governor emphasized the necessity of providing resettled communities with sustainable livelihoods, reducing dependency on external food aid for survival.
During his visit to Gamboru, Wulgo, and Dambore irrigation sites, Governor Zulum, accompanied by prominent officials including Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Representative Engr Bukar Talba, Assembly Member Hon Bukar Abatcha, and Ngala Local Government Chairman, emphasized the urgent need for long-term solutions to combat food crises in the state.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by current food distribution practices, Governor Zulum stressed, “It is imperative to look for medium- and longer-term sustainable solutions that will completely address food crises in the state.”
